It all depends on your individual circumstances. Be sure to determine correct information on when to enroll regarding your individual circumstances or you may end up paying some hefty penalties for the rest of your life for enrolling late!
Some general tips:
If you want to get either a Medicare Supplement and Prescription Drug Plan OR instead a Medicare Advantage plan, you will first need to be enrolled in both Part A and Part B.
Although if you are still working at age 65, have credible health insurance through your employer, and want to keep to your employer health insurance, generally you do not need to enroll in Part A or Part B immediately. (Rules can differ depending on the number of employees at your company. Less than 20 employees has different rules.)
It is always best to check with your benefits administrator to determine if you should enroll in Part A or Part B to be sure.
However Part A is usually free for most people (if you worked 40 quarters, paid Medicare taxes during that time, and also are a US citizen or permanent legal resident for at least 5 years).
So you may want to enroll in Part A, even while you are still working since it free for most people. Then later enroll in Part B right away when you first retire or leave your work to avoid any hefty penalties. Note: There is a monthly premium for Part B.
Note: If you choose COBRA after you stop working, do not wait until your COBRA coverage ends to sign up for Medicare! (Check with the Social Security office for details on when you need to enroll to avoid penalties, etc.) If you delay enrolling in Medicare Part A or Part B after your Special Enrollment Period ends, you’ll have to wait until the next General Enrollment Period (January 1 to March 31 every year) to enroll, and you may have to pay hefty late enrollment penalties added to your premiums for the rest of your life if you choose to keep Medicare.
For a relate blog post, click the web link below:
How Do I Get Medicare Part A & Part B?
Note: Medicare Insurance information can be overwhelming and confusing to many people. As an independent licensed agent I can explain things to you in simple terms so you feel comfortable making a decision. Then I can help you choose and enroll in a plan that you feel fits your needs.
By the way, it doesn’t cost you any more if you enroll in a Medicare Insurance plan through me as an independent agent versus directly with an insurance company either over the phone or via the Internet, since I get paid by the insurance companies for your enrollment. Plus you will have personalized service by a local agent. If you would like my assistance, please call me at 941-404-5334.
By calling this number, I understand I will be directed to a licensed insurance sales agent.