5 Tips for First-Time Medicare Enrollment
When you turn 65, you’ll be eligible for Medicare in the United States. However, you might be wondering a bit more about what the enrollment process entails and how to ensure it goes smoothly, so Good and Associates Insurance Services has collected some info for you here.
To learn more about the Medicare signup process and make certain it goes as planned, take a look at these five easy tips!
- Know Your Medicare Initial Enrollment Dates
First, you’ll need to find out your initial enrollment period for Medicare. Often, the initial enrollment period will last seven months, unless you’ve been qualified for a delay. This seven-month period occurs three months before your 65th birthday, the month your turn 65, and three months afterward.
- Figure Out if You’re Eligible for a Delay or Not
To make it even more convenient to enroll at your leisure, find out whether you’re eligible to delay or defer your enrollment. Often, you can delay enrolling in Medicare Part B, or both Parts A and B, which enables you to postpone paying Medicare costs. Those eligible for enrollment deferral will have healthcare coverage through their spouse’s insurance plan or will be continuing to work past 65.
- Learn About Different Ways to Get Medicare Benefits
There are two ways to get Medicare Part A and B benefits, either through Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan. Original Medicare is administered by the federal government, whereas Medicare Advantage is offered by private insurance companies.
- Decide If You’ll Require Additional Coverage
When enrolling for the first time, it’s also important to determine whether you’ll need additional coverage for your prescriptions, as well as dental and vision coverage. This is because Original Medicare doesn’t include these things, so if you want them, you’ll most likely need to invest in a Medicare Advantage plan or a Part D plan.
- Estimate Your Total Costs
Before finally settling upon the right plan for you, it’s important to estimate all of your costs, including your premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. This will give you a better idea of what plan will be best for you. Be sure to consider your deductibles, copays, and coinsurance costs on top of everything else.
Contact us today for more about Medicare signup!
For those signing up for Medicare for the first time, having some help can be beneficial. For more about our Medicare offerings, as well as life insurance and Covered California plans, contact us online or call 1 (800) 429-9900 or (909) 613-0056.
