Commonly Asked Questions About Medicare

 If you delay Medicare past age 65, you may have gaps in coverage and you could pay a penalty later. Most people should enroll during their Initial Enrollment Period, which starts three months before your 65th birthday.
The only people who can delay without penalty are those who have active employer coverage from a company with 20 or more employees. 

Yes.
Medicare may charge a lifetime penalty if you delay certain parts:

• Part B Penalty: 10% added for every full year you delayed.
   
• Part D Penalty: Calculated based on how long you went without credible drug coverage.
   

These penalties last as long as you have Medicare, so it’s important not to miss your deadlines.

Medicare Advantage (Part C):

• All-in-one plan that replaces Original Medicare.
• Often includes prescription drugs, dental, vision, hearing, and more.
• You use the plan’s network (HMO/PPO).
• Usually low or $0 premiums.
   

Medigap (Supplement):

• Works with Original Medicare.
• Helps cover deductibles, coinsurance, and other out-of-pocket costs.
• You keep the freedom to see any doctor who accepts Medicare.
• Separate drug plan (Part D) is needed.
   

Neither option is “better” — I help you choose based on your health needs, doctors, and medications

• If you have active employer coverage and the company has 20+ employees, you can delay Part B and Part D without penalty.
• If the employer has less than 20 employees, Medicare becomes primary, so you usually need to enroll at 65.
• You can enroll in Medicare later using a Special Enrollment Period when your employer coverage ends.

Part D plans are offered by private insurance companies. Each plan has:

• A drug list (formulary)
• Preferred pharmacies
• Different copay levels
• A monthly premium
   

You can change Part D plans once a year during Annual Enrollment (Oct 15–Dec 7).
I help you compare plans based on your actual prescriptions to make sure you save the most money.

Here is a clear turning-65 checklist:

1. Decide if you need to enroll in Medicare now or if employer coverage allows you to delay.
2. Enroll in Parts A and B through Social Security.
3. Review Medicare Advantage and Medigap options.
4. Choose a Part D plan if you need drug coverage.
5. Make sure your doctors and medications are covered.
6. Pick a plan before your birthday month to avoid delays.
    

I walk you through the entire process at no cost.