Turning 65 and Questions About Medicare? We Have Your Answers!

Getting older has its advantages and becoming eligible for Medicare is one of them. If you’re turning 65 soon, you probably already know the whole process can be confusing, but you have options, and Millennium Medicare Connect has your answers.

If you’re about to turn 65 and qualify for Medicare, this is called your “Medicare Age-In” or initial enrollment period, and it’s an important milestone. Medicare options, deadlines, and terminology can be confusing, but the first and most important fact to know, is:

If you are turning 65, you have a seven-month initial enrollment period where you can enroll in Medicare and avoid penalties, like higher premiums.  

Your Initial Medicare Enrollment Period begins three months prior to the month of your 65th birthday, includes the month of your birthday, and ends three months after your birthday month.

If you are approaching 65, be sure to enroll during your eligibility period. If you miss this important deadline, you could end up paying a late enrollment penalty which means higher Medicare premiums – for the rest of your life.

The parts of Medicare include:

Original Medicare (Parts A and B) is managed by the federal government and covers hospital and medical expenses; however, it’s not your only option.

You have the option to enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) with more benefits at no additional cost. This additional coverage is provided by private insurance companies and is backed by Medicare.

You can also enroll in an additional Drug Plan (Part D) to cover prescription drugs.

Medicare part C or Medicare advantage plans are growing in popularity because they offer all-in-one coverage that can be low-to-no cost and includes part A, part B, along with drug coverage, vision and/or dental coverage, gym memberships, transportation, or even stipends for over-the-county needs.

A lot of people continue to work after age 65 and may have health insurance through their employers or spouses. Even if you are covered by this type of insurance, you should still become familiar with Medicare options because you do have a choice.

That’s where Millennium Medicare Connect and our trusted Medicare Navigators at HealthShare360 can help. You have questions, and we have answers. Just Connect with us at YourMedicareConnect.com to get started.