Medicare FAQs: Get Answers to Your Questions

A: Assuming you have met the work-related eligibility requirements, you may begin enrollment into Medicare 90 days in advance of the month you turn 65.

A: Medicare does not have spousal or dependent coverage. Medicare is individual. If your spouse has reached age eligibility (65), then they can enroll in Medicare of their own accord 90 days in advance of the month they turn 65.

A: Maybe. If the employer group has 20 eligible employees or more, and you’re going to continue to work, then yes, it’s an option. But there are many things to consider.

A: Part “A” is typically in place and a paid-up benefit when you turn 65. Part “B” is not, unless you have enrolled in Social Security prior to age 65. If you have not filed to receive Social Security benefits, then you need to proactively enroll in Part “B” benefits and begin paying for them.

A: Yes. However, you will not have prescription coverage, and you will face unlimited exposure to those costs due to the gaps in Original Medicare.

A: You usually can. It’s important to be sure your doctor accepts Medicare. Some don’t.

A: Yes, for up to 100 days, after a required three-day hospital stay.

A: No. But some Advantage plans offer limited dental coverage.

A: No, a retiree plan will typically wrap around Medicare primary benefits.

A: Part “D” is the Prescription Drug plan Medicare introduced in 2006.

A: In addition to having a huge gap in coverage, you will likely face a penalty from Medicare. A Part “B” penalty can be 10% of your Part “B” premium for each 12-month period outside of Medicare and up to 1% of the national average of a Part “D” plan for each month absent Part “D.”

A: Part “C” is another name for Medicare Advantage. Also named MA, MSA, or MA-PD (when prescriptions are included).

A: Online at SSA.gov or in person at a local Social Security office.

A: This is a Medicare term that establishes previous coverage being at least as good as Medicare’s. Typically is in play for Part “D” to avoid penalty.

A: No.