Turning 65: Your Medicare Road map

Turning 65 is an important milestone and it often means making several decisions about Medicare. Understanding when to enroll, what coverage you need, and which options are available can help you avoid unnecessary costs, penalties, and coverage gaps.

1. Know Your Enrollment Window

Your Initial Enrollment Period generally lasts 7 months—starting 3 months before your 65th birthday month, including your birthday month, and ending 3 months afterward. Your enrollment timing can affect when your coverage begins, so it's important to plan ahead.

2. Determine If You Need to Enroll

If you're already receiving Social Security benefits, you may be automatically enrolled in Medicare.

If you're still working or covered through a spouse's employer, your situation may be different. The type and size of the employer coverage can affect whether you should enroll in Part B when you turn 65.

3. Understand Your Medicare Options

You'll generally choose between:

• Original Medicare (Parts A & B)
  You can add a Part D prescription drug plan and consider Medigap to help with certain out-of-pocket costs.

• Medicare Advantage (Part C)
  Private Medicare-approved plans that provide Part A and Part B benefits and often include prescription drug coverage and additional benefits.

4. Review Your Prescriptions & Doctors

Before choosing coverage, check:

• Are your medications covered?

• Are your doctors and preferred hospitals in-network?

• What will you pay for prescriptions and healthcare services?

• Are there additional benefits that are important to you?

5. Don't Miss Important Deadlines

Pay particular attention to:

• Your Initial Enrollment Period

• Part D enrollment and potential late enrollment penalties

• Your 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period if you choose Original Medicare and enroll in Part B

• Special Enrollment Periods if you qualify

6. Choose Coverage That Fits You

There isn't one Medicare plan that's right for everyone. Your healthcare needs, prescriptions, doctors, budget, and available plans in your area should all be considered.

Need Help Navigating Medicare?

You don't have to figure it out alone. As a licensed local insurance agent, I can help you understand your Medicare options and compare available coverage.

Call 330-716-1368 to schedule a no-cost, no-obligation Medicare consultation.

Plan availability, benefits, premiums, provider networks, and costs vary by plan and service area. We do not offer every plan available in your area.