Hurst Medicare Insurance

Hurst Medicare Insurance

Here’s some good news: if you’re turning 65 soon, you’ll also be eligible to join Medicare—a federally funded program that provides hospital and medical insurance to older Americans. Transitioning to Medicare for the first time can be confusing and you’re not alone if you have a few questions. Here’s a great resource to get you started—important tips and things to think about as you plan for Medicare coverage.

Enrollment In Medicare Is Automatic

If you’re worried about how to sign up for Medicare before your birthday, don’t be. For most seniors, enrollment in Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) is automatic. As long as you receive Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits, you don’t need to do anything at all and your Medicare card will be sent to you by mail.

Expect to receive your card 3 months before you turn 65, with benefits beginning on the first day of your birthday month. If you do not receive retirement benefits, you may need to enroll in Medicare manually through the Social Security Administration or Railroad Retirement Board.

Accepting or Opting Out of Part B

While Part A (hospital insurance) is free for most people, Part B (medical insurance) is not. A monthly premium will be deducted from your Social Security check each month. 

If you are still working, covered through an employer or a spouse’s employer, you do not need to keep Part B coverage or pay for it. You can choose to opt out of Part B coverage on the back of your membership card.

Important tip: If you opt out of Part B coverage, and do not have comparable coverage through an employer or spouse, you may end up paying a late enrollment penalty when you decide to join.