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Turning 65 Dates, and Questions for Florida Medicare

Important Dates

There are several important dates. The earliest you can apply is 3 months before your birth month. For instance, if your birthday is July 15th, you can sign up for Medicare on March 1st.  You have a special enrollment period that lasts 3 calendar months before your birth month, and 3 calendar months after your birth month. If you sign up in the 3 months after you turn 65, you'll experience delays in coverage, but will not be responsible for penalties.

Turning 65 Medicare Enrollment
Turning 65 Medicare Delays

How Much Does Medicare Cost at Age 65?

Part A is free if you've paid FICA taxes for 40 quarters, if you are disabled, or have end stage renal disease, or other specific conditions. The Part B premium is $170.10 per month in 2022 unless you are making over a certain amount. There are many Florida Medicare Savings Programs to help with your Part B premiums if you need help. In some cases, a Part C Advantage plan will cover all or part of your Part B premium. If you make more than $87,000 per year, you'll pay slightly more for Part B coverage, and will still be eligible for Medicare Supplement Plans and Medicare Advantage plans (Part C).

Original Medicare = 20% Coinsurance

If you stay with original Medicare, you'll be subject to 20% coinsurance for most covered services. Prescription drugs will not be covered unless you sign up for a Part C or Part D plan. You can avoid the 20% coinsurance with a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C), or a Medicare supplement.  For supplement plans, see our Medicare Supplement Comparison Chart. We can help you enroll in Advantage Plans or Supplements, or help you explore what course of action to take. Call our helpline at 888-997-5204.

Is it Mandatory to Sign Up for Medicare at Age 65?

No. It is not mandatory. However, if you don't sign up when first eligible, you may have to pay significant Medicare penalties when you sign up later. If you have other coverage like COBRA or ACA (Obamacare), that coverage may not pay after you become Medicare eligible. (Whether you have signed up or not). If you're still working and have employer coverage, that may allow you to delay Medicare enrollment, if your current coverage is "creditable" - meaning at least as good as Medicare. If you have questions about your specific circumstances, call our helpline at 888-997-5204.

Do I Automatically Get Medicare When I Turn 65?

Usually, no. If you are under 65 and disabled, you will get medicare automatically after receiving 24 months of disability benefits, or if you are already getting social security benefits. In most cases, you will need to sign up.

How Do I Sign Up for Medicare When I Turn 65?

You sign up for Medicare through the Federal Social Security Administration. Our licensed Insurance Agents are here to help you with the entire process. Contact us for free help and more information, or call our helpline at 888-997-5204.