Do you need to apply?
Some people are enrolled automatically. Others need to apply for Medicare Part A and Part B. Check your status before assuming your coverage is in place.
MEDICARE ENROLLMENT, EXPLAINED
The right next step.
At the right time.
Turning 65, leaving employer coverage, or reviewing your plan?
Start by understanding which enrollment window applies to you.
Enrollment rules can change. Check the official Medicare.gov resources below for current guidance. Your circumstances determine your options.
STARTING MEDICARE
Signing up and choosing
coverage are separate steps.
Lewis Health Insurance can help you understand the process, from using Social Security’s website to comparing insurance options.
Use the official application.
We can help you understand the online steps and account setup. You keep control of your account and credentials; Social Security handles the application.
Build on your Medicare coverage.
Then discuss Medicare Advantage, or Original Medicare with separate drug coverage and a possible Medigap policy, based on your needs and eligibility.
KNOW YOUR WINDOW
Dates worth understanding.
A seven-month starting window.
For most people turning 65, the Initial Enrollment Period includes the three months before their birthday month, their birthday month, and the following three months. Special rules can apply, including for a birthday on the first day of a month.
Check your initial enrollment timing ↗Annual Open Enrollment.
This is the annual opportunity to make Medicare health and drug plan changes for the next year. Changes generally take effect January 1. Bring your current plan’s Annual Notice of Change to a review.
Review plan enrollment periods ↗Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment.
If you’re already in Medicare Advantage, you can generally make one change to another Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare and join a separate drug plan. This period is not a general opportunity for everyone to join Medicare Advantage.
Understand who can make a change ↗Special Enrollment Periods.
Events such as moving or losing certain coverage may create an enrollment opportunity. Rules and deadlines differ for Parts A and B, Medicare Advantage, and drug plans. Contact us promptly to talk through your situation.
Learn about special circumstances ↗MORE QUESTIONS ABOUT TIMING
Let’s clear up
a few common questions.
What if I’m still working at 65?
Whether you can delay Part B can depend on coverage through current employment and employer size. Ask your benefits administrator how the plan works with Medicare before deciding. COBRA and retiree coverage are not the same as active-employment coverage. Check Medicare.gov’s enrollment guidance.
Is applying for Medicare the same as choosing a plan?
No. Enrolling in Parts A and B establishes your Original Medicare coverage. Medicare Advantage, a separate Part D plan, or a Medigap policy involves additional choices and separate eligibility and enrollment rules.
Can I review my plan before fall enrollment?
Yes. We can talk about your current coverage and prepare your doctor and prescription lists. Whether you can change plans depends on your enrollment rights and the applicable dates.
Does an annual review mean I have to switch?
No. The purpose is to understand how your coverage fits your needs and what may be changing. An informed decision may be to keep your current plan.
A LITTLE TIMING HELP CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.