Common Questions About Medicare
Who is eligible for Medicare?
Most people become eligible for Medicare at age 65 if they are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Younger individuals may qualify if they have received Social Security disability benefits for at least 24 months or have certain conditions like end‑stage renal disease.
What are the different parts of Medicare?
Medicare is made up of Part A (hospital coverage) and Part B (medical coverage), which together are known as Original Medicare. You can also add Part D prescription drug coverage and a Medigap plan to help with cost‑sharing costs like deductibles and coinsurance. Alternatively, you may enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan offered by private insurers that combines Parts A and B and often Part D in one policy.
What is the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medigap?
Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurers approved by Medicare. They bundle Part A and Part B (and often Part D) into one policy and may include extra benefits like dental, vision and gym memberships. You generally use a network of doctors and pay copays and coinsurance as you go. Medigap policies are supplemental plans that work with Original Medicare to help pay your share of deductibles, coinsurance and copays. Medigap does not include drug coverage, so you’ll need a separate Part D plan, but it lets you see any provider nationwide who accepts Medicare.
When can I enroll in Medicare?
Your Initial Enrollment Period begins three months before the month you turn 65, includes your birthday month and ends three months after. Signing up during this seven‑month window helps you avoid late‑enrollment penalties. If you miss it and don’t have other creditable coverage, you can enroll in Part A and Part B each year during the General Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31), though you may owe penalties. If you’re working past 65 and covered by an employer plan, you’ll receive a Special Enrollment Period when that coverage ends.
Have more questions?
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