Turning 65? Don’t Miss the Window!
Why Turning 65 Matters
Your 65th birthday is more than just a milestone, it’s a major moment in your healthcare journey. Whether you’re continuing to work or preparing to retire, this is the time to get informed about your Medicare options. The good news? You don’t have to navigate it alone.
When you turn 65, you become eligible for Medicare. You have limited time to apply for coverage and avoid penalties.
7-month Initial Enrollment Period (IEP). This window includes:
- The 3 months before your 65th birthday
- The month of your birthday
- The 3 months after your birthday
Still Working at 65?
If you’re still employed and have health coverage through your work, you may be able to delay certain parts of Medicare without facing penalties. Whether or not this applies depends on your employer’s size and your existing plan. For example, if your employer has fewer than 20 employees, Medicare typically becomes your primary insurance–even if you’re still working (CMS,2024).
What to Consider
Choosing Medicare coverage isn’t a one-size-fits-all. Here are a few important questions to guide your decision:
- Do you want to stay with Original Medicare (Parts A and B) or choose a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan?
- Will you need a separate Part D plan for prescription drugs?
- Should you consider a Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plan to cover out-of-pocket expenses like deductibles and coinsurance?
What You Can Do Now
Here are a few proactive steps to take before your 65th birthday:
- Mark your Initial Enrollment Period on your calendar.
- Make a list of your current doctors, prescriptions, and medical priorities.
- Set up a free consultation with one of our agents at Harbor Health Insurance Services.
- Talk to us to help you review all your options to make a confident, cost-effective decision.
We’re Here to Help
Medicare can be complex, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Our team is here to guide you through the process, answer your questions, and help you make an informed choice that fits your life.
Ready to explore your Medicare options?
Contact us today to schedule your appointment. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
- Call us: (888) 411-1095
- Email us: Contact@HarborHealthIS.com
References:
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. (2024). Medicare & You 2024. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.medicare.gove/publications
Kaiser Family Foundation. (2023). An overview of Medicare. http://www.kff.org/medicare
Medicare Disclaimer: We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.
