Things to know as you turn 65

Planning to retire at age 65?

This information will help you better understand the enrollment process and avoid late enrollment penalties or gaps in coverage. Here are the milestones you need to know about to successfully enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan that’s right for you.

Trying to make sense of Medicare? Let us help, we’re not your typical agents.
  • Check to see how your current healthcare coverage may be affected by your Medicare eligibility. Speak to your HR person at work.
  • Learn of any programs that could help you pay for Medicare Parts A & B.
  • Get to know the differences between Original Medicare, Medicare Supplements and Medicare Advantage plans.
  • Take the time to explore your plan and coverage options. Get to know the differences between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage. You’ll see that Medicare Advantage plans typically offer more benefits and services than Original Medicare alone. In addition, some Medicare Advantage plans have more benefits than others.
  • Be sure to talk to friends and family to see how they feel about their Medicare plans. Their experiences can help inform your decision.
  • If you’re still working, meet with your HR department to understand your retiree benefits. If you’re considering working past 65 and are currently insured through your employer, you may only need to sign up for Medicare Part A.
  • If you’re not already receiving Social Security benefits, contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to confirm that your work history or your spouse’s history qualifies you for Medicare.
  • Make a list of your current health issues and prescription drug needs to understand what kind of coverage you need.
  • If you plan to keep your current doctor, check to see if they accept Medicare patients. It’s also a good idea to see if your doctor is part of the network for any Medicare Advantage plans you are considering.
  • The Initial Enrollment Period is a 7-month window where you can enroll in Medicare for the first time. That’s 3 months before you turn 65, your birthday month, and 3 months after you turn 65.
  • During this time frame, you should enroll in Medicare Parts A and B by contacting the Social Security Administration at www.socialsecurity.gov, or call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778). If you do this one month prior to your birthday, your coverage will be in place when you turn 65.
  • Then, if you want benefits beyond Original Medicare, you can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan.
  • Once you’re enrolled, make sure you receive your Medicare card. If you have enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, make sure you receive your plan’s ID card and / or prescription drug card.
  • If you have any questions at all, call one of our Medicare representatives at 1-800-834-4890. We’re here to help you in any way we can.
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Indemnity health insurance works much like auto insurance in that you will pay your health insurance deductible before the insurance company picks up the remainder of your bill. This deductible amount will vary based upon the specific type of health insurance policy option you chose.
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