New to Medicare
Everything you need to know about Medicare — the parts, the plans, the enrollment periods, and how to make the right choice for your health and budget.
Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care. Most people pay $0 premium if they worked 40+ quarters.
Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and medical equipment. Standard premium is around $174.70/month in 2024.
An alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurers. Bundles Parts A, B, and often D into one plan with possible extra benefits.
Standalone prescription drug coverage. Works alongside Original Medicare or Medigap to reduce your out-of-pocket medication costs.
Missing your enrollment window can result in lifetime premium penalties. Here are the key periods to know.
7-month window around your 65th birthday
Begins 3 months before the month you turn 65, includes your birthday month, and extends 3 months after. This is your primary opportunity to enroll in Medicare Parts A and B without penalty.
Triggered by qualifying life events
If you have employer coverage when you turn 65, you can delay Medicare without penalty. When that coverage ends, you have an 8-month SEP to enroll in Part B.
October 15 – December 7 each year
During this period you can switch Medicare Advantage plans, switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare, or change your Part D drug plan.
January 1 – March 31 each year
If you are already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can switch to a different MA plan or return to Original Medicare during this period.
Our licensed advisors are ready to walk you through every step of Medicare enrollment — completely free.