What Happens When You Turn 65?

When you turn 65, you become eligible for Medicare, a federal health insurance program. Your eligibility may be based on your age or if you have certain disabilities. Here’s an overview of the different parts of Medicare and what they cover:

1. Medicare Part A: Hospital Insurance

• What It Covers: Part A helps cover the costs of:
  • Inpatient hospital stays (room and board, nursing services, etc.)

  • Skilled nursing facility care (not custodial care, but skilled nursing and therapy)

  • Hospice care (for terminally ill patients)

  • Some home health care (for patients recovering at home)

2. Medicare Part B: Medical Insurance

• What It Covers: Part B helps pay for:
  • Doctor’s services

  • Outpatient care

  • Medical supplies (such as wheelchairs, walkers)

  • Preventive services (like flu shots, cancer screenings)

  • Durable medical equipment (such as oxygen therapy equipment)

Note: Part B does have a monthly premium, which can vary based on your income.

3. Medicare Part C: Medicare Advantage

• What It Covers: Offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare, Part C is a bundle that typically includes:

• Part A and Part B coverage (hospital and medical insurance)
• Often includes Part D (prescription drug coverage)
• Additional benefits such as vision, dental, hearing coverage, and even wellness programs

4. Medicare Part D: Prescription Drug Coverage

• What It Covers: Part D helps cover the costs of prescription drugs and is available through private insurance plans.

When Can You Sign Up for Medicare?

• Initial Enrollment Period: You can sign up for Medicare three months before the month you turn 65, the month of your birthday, and three months after your birthday month.

• Special Enrollment Period: If you’re still working at 65 and have employer health coverage, you can delay signing up for Part B without penalty and enroll later.

• General Enrollment Period: If you miss the Initial Enrollment Period, you can enroll between January 1 and March 31 each year, but late enrollment penalties may apply.

What To Do Next:

• If you are nearing 65, you’ll likely receive information from Social Security about how to sign up for Medicare.

• Be mindful of your enrollment period to avoid late penalties, especially for Part B and Part D.