Mastering Medicare: Your essential guide
Navigate the ins and outs of Medicare with our step-by-step guidance.
Eligibility
When to start your Medicare
The earliest you may begin your Medicare is on the first day of the month you turn 65. If you’re born on the first of the month, you’re eligible for the first of the preceding month.
For example, if you are turning 65 on May 17, 2023, then you can start Medicare on May 1, 2023. But if your 65th birthday is on May 1, 2023, then you can begin on April 1, 2023. You can skip enrolling in Medicare at 65 if you have other creditable coverage. When your creditable coverage ends, you’ll get a special enrollment period to join Medicare without any penalties.
If you’re receiving social security disability or have qualifying health conditions, you may be eligible much earlier.
Send us a message for more details on eligibility
Coverage
Insurance plans
Frequently asked questions
What is Medicare?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program in the United States for individuals aged 65 and older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities.
What are the different parts of Medicare?
Medicare is divided into four parts: Part A (Hospital Insurance), Part B (Medical Insurance), Part C (Medicare Advantage), and Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage).
When am I eligible for Medicare?
You are generally eligible for Medicare when you turn 65. Some individuals may qualify earlier if they have certain disabilities or medical conditions.
How do I enroll in Medicare?
You are usually automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B when you turn 65 if you are receiving Social Security benefits. If not, you need to sign up during the Initial Enrollment Period.
Do I need to enroll in Medicare at age 65 if I still have employer coverage?
No, if you have coverage from an employer that employs more than 20 people, you can likely defer enrolling in Part A and Part B until you’re about to retire.
Is Medicare free?
While Part A is often premium-free, Part B and other parts may have monthly premiums. Additional costs may include deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance.
Can I have other health coverage with Medicare?
Yes, many people have supplemental coverage, such as Medigap policies or Medicare Advantage plans, to help cover costs that Medicare doesn’t.
What is the "doughnut hole" in Medicare Part D?
The Medicare Part D coverage gap, or “doughnut hole,” is a temporary limit on what a Part D prescription drug plan will cover. It has been gradually closing due to healthcare reforms.
Can I change my Medicare coverage?
Yes, you can make changes during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) each year, which runs October 15th – December 7th. There are also Special Enrollment Periods for certain life events.
What is Medicaid, and how does it relate to Medicare?
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps with medical costs for certain people with limited income and resources. Some individuals may qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid (dual eligibility).
Have more Medicare questions?
We’re ready to answer all your queries. Drop us a message and we’ll respond straight away.
Media
Medicare videos
Learn more about the world of Medicare through our free educational videos.
- Medicare 101
- Video
In this video, Laurel dives into the fundamentals of Medicare, providing clear explanations and insights to help you navigate Medicare with confidence. Discover the different parts of Medicare - A, B, C, and D - and learn what each offers in terms of coverage. From hospital care to preventive services and prescription drugs, we'll equip you with the knowledge to understand your options fully. We'll also explore enrollment periods and highlight key considerations for selecting the right Medicare plan for your needs. By the end of this video, you'll have the tools and understanding to make confident decisions about your healthcare coverage. Don't leave your Medicare choices to chance. Watch now to empower yourself with the knowledge you need to master Medicare and take control of your healthcare journey.
- Medicare 101
- Video
In this video, Laurel dives into the fundamentals of Medicare, providing clear explanations and insights to help you navigate Medicare with confidence. Discover the different parts of Medicare - A, B, C, and D - and learn what each offers in terms of coverage. From hospital care to preventive services and prescription drugs, we'll equip you with the knowledge to understand your options fully. We'll also explore enrollment periods and highlight key considerations for selecting the right Medicare plan for your needs. By the end of this video, you'll have the tools and understanding to make confident decisions about your healthcare coverage. Don't leave your Medicare choices to chance. Watch now to empower yourself with the knowledge you need to master Medicare and take control of your healthcare journey.
- Medicare 101
- Video
In this video, you'll learn the key differences between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans, focusing on costs, coverage, and out-of-pocket expenses. Whether you're new to Medicare or reassessing your options, this guide will help you understand which plan might be more cost-effective for your healthcare needs.
Let’s start your Medicare path
Make your health journey a walk in the park. Talk with our dedicated team to get the answers to any questions you may have.