FAQ
Common Medicare Questions
When should I start looking into signing up for Medicare?
We suggest you start the process 6 months before turning 65. However, you can reach out to us any time you have questions. Some like to get an early start, while others like to wait until the last minute. Both are ok with us!
When can I sign up for Medicare for Part A and Part B?
Turning 65, you can sign up 3 months before, the month of, and 3 months after the month you turn 65.
Retiring and coming off of a group plan, you have 8 months to enroll.
Over 65 and 3 months and not on a group plan, you can apply during Medicare open enrollment, Jan 1st through March 31st and it will start July 1st.
Do I have to sign up for Medicare Part A or Part B when I turn 65?
No, if you are covered by a credible coverage, typically someone’s current employment group plan, with more than 20 employees. If you are happy with your current coverage you do not have to sign up for Part A or B, but you may want to.
Yes, if you don’t have group coverage through current employment, or if you work for a company with less than 20 employees. You’ll want to consider signing up for both.
Should I sign up for Part A and Part B when I turn 65?
Will I get a penalty if I don’t sign up for Medicare Part A and B when I turn 65?
No, if you have credible coverage. Basically, if you are currently employed and/or covered by a currently employed spouse’s group insurance plan you will not be penalized.
Yes, if you don’t have group coverage through current employment. If you have an individual plan like the Affordable Care Act, or if you don’t have insurance at all then you will want to sign up for both A and B to avoid any future penalties. You would also want to sign up if you plan on being on a retiree group plan or Cobra for over 8 months after retiring.
Do I have to sign up for Part D prescription drug plan when I turn 65?
No, if you have creditable drug coverage through a currently employed group insurance plan.
Yes, if you don’t have credible drug coverage through a current employer or Veterans Affairs (VA), and you want to avoid a penalty in the future.
How do I sign up for Part A and B?
Turning 65 and currently collecting Social Security, you will be automatically enrolled in both Part A and B. Your card should show up about 3 months before your birthday. If you don’t want Part A or B for some reason, then mail it back in the provided envelope.
Turning 65 and not collecting Social Security, and don’t plan on doing so, you can fill out an application online, you can go to the Social Security department, or you can call us. We can come to your home first to help you decide if you should sign up, and then to start the sign-up process. We will also show you your Medicare insurance options and help you pick the best plan for you.
Over 65 and coming off a group plan, you will need to take the IRS form L564 to your employer benefits person and have them fill out and sign their portion. You then need to take that form to your local Social Security department and clearly articulate when you want your Part B to start.
What are the different Parts of Medicare?
Part A. Covers inpatient hospitalization, skilled nursing, home health services, and hospice.
Part B. Covers medical procedures and tests, doctors’ appointments, ER visits, preventive services, and durable medical equipment, to name a few.
Part C. Also referred to as Medicare Advantage.
Part D. The Rx or Prescription drug plan.
These plans come individually or are included with a Medicare Advantage plan.
What are the Medicare deductibles for 2024?
A Medicare deductible is the amount you are responsible for before Medicare pays its 20%. These deductibles are annual.
Part A Hospital deductible is $1,600.
Part B Medical deductible is $240 annually.
Part D Prescription Plan deductible is $545.*
*This deductible will vary among carriers and programs; however, it can not exceed $545 and typically does not apply to generic medicines.
What are my Medicare coverage options?
This is the core of what we do for you. At Active Medicare Solutions, we educate you on all of your options:
- Medicare only + Part D Prescription Drug Plan (PDP)
- Medicare + Medicare Supplement / Medigap + Part D (PDP)
- Medicare Advantage / Part C
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