Medicare FAQs
I’m turning 65 this year and plan to retire. When am I eligible to enroll in Medicare?
If you’ve met the work-related eligibility requirements (usually 10 years of work), you can enroll in Medicare beginning three months before the month you turn 65.
Can my dependent spouse be on my Medicare plan?
No. Medicare is an individual plan. Your spouse will need to qualify separately—typically by age or disability.
Can I keep my employer coverage when I qualify for Medicare?
Sometimes, yes. It depends on your employer size and whether the coverage is considered creditable. We can help you evaluate whether to keep it, delay Medicare, or switch fully.
Do I need both Part A and Part B?
Can I use just Original Medicare (Parts A & B)?
Yes—but be aware that it won’t cover everything. Many retirees choose to add a Supplement (Medigap) or switch to a Medicare Advantage Plan for added benefits and cost protection.
Can I keep all my same doctors on Medicare?
With Original Medicare and a Supplement, you can see any provider that accepts Medicare. With a Medicare Advantage Plan, you may have to use a network. We’ll help you choose based on your provider preferences.
Does Medicare cover nursing home care?
Medicare covers short-term skilled nursing care under certain conditions—but it does not pay for long-term custodial care. Long-term care insurance is needed for extended support.
Does Medicare include dental coverage?
Original Medicare doesn’t cover routine dental services. Some Medicare Advantage Plans include dental, and there are standalone dental plans available.
I have retiree benefits. Do I still need Medicare?
In most cases, yes. Even with retiree health coverage, enrolling in Medicare can help coordinate benefits—and failing to enroll in time could result in penalties or coverage gaps.
What is Medicare Part D?
Part D is prescription drug coverage. You can get it through a standalone Part D plan or bundled with a Medicare Advantage Plan.
What happens if I miss my Medicare enrollment window?
You may face late enrollment penalties—especially for Part B or Part D—and may need to wait for the next General Enrollment Period. Avoid this by enrolling during your Initial Enrollment Period or with guidance from a professional.
What is a Medicare Part C (Advantage) Plan?
These plans are an alternative to Original Medicare and are offered by private insurers. They combine Parts A & B (and often Part D) into one plan, sometimes with extra benefits like dental and vision.
Where do I go to sign up for Medicare?
You can enroll through the Social Security Administration online, by phone, or in person. We can help guide you through the process.
What is creditable coverage?
It’s other health insurance (like employer coverage) that meets Medicare’s minimum standards. Having it may let you delay Medicare without penalty.
Should I have both a Medicare Advantage Plan and a Medicare Supplement Plan?
No. You must choose one or the other—they don’t work together. We’ll help you compare both options to decide which is right for your health and budget.
