FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
CHECK OUT SOME OF OUR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS. IF YOU HAVE MORE QUESTIONS, JUST CONTACT US.
When do I enroll in Medicare?
It depends. How is that for an answer? Most people become eligible for Medicare when they turn 65. However, individuals who have been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for 24 months, are automatically enrolled in Medicare. But turning 65 doesn't necessarily mean you need to enroll in Medicare. People have heard about the penalties associated with not enrolling in Medicare and that has struck fear in the heart of many. But if you or your spouse is actively working and the employer provides your healthcare coverage, you may be able to delay enrolling in Medicare. The size of the employer plays a large part in whether you need to enroll in Medicare when first eligible.
Aren't I automatically enrolled in Medicare when I turn 65?
No. Medicare does not keep track of when people turn 65. If you have been receiving Social Security prior to turning 65, you will be automatically enrolled into Part A and Part B of Medicare. However, if you are not collecting Social Security, you will not be automatically enrolled. If you need to enroll in Medicare, you must submit an application through Social Security. You must decide whether you wish to enroll in both Part A and Part B or only Part A. And depending on which parts you wish to enroll into, you can only do some things online and other things only at your local Social Security office.
Isn't Medicare free?
Yes and No. There is no monthly premium for Part A of Medicare if you have contributed to Medicare taxes (FICA) for a total of 40 quarters. If you have not contributed for 40 quarters, you will have to pay a monthly Part A premium. Everyone has to pay a monthly premium for Part B of Medicare. The amount you will pay for your Part B premium is determined by your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) from 2 years prior. For example, your 2021 Part B premium will be based on the MAGI from your 2019 tax return. The amount of your Part B premium will be determined by where your income level falls. In 2021, most people will pay $148.50 per month for Part B.
I have Part A and Part B. Now I need Part C and Part D, right?
This is where things start to get even more confusing! Not all the parts of Medicare work with each other. You can not have Part C and Part D at the same time. Please contact us to help you get the coverage that is right for you!