A: Assuming you have met the work-related eligibility requirements, you may begin enrollment into Medicare 90 days in advance of the month you turn 65.

A: Medicare does not have spousal or dependent coverage. Medicare is individual. If your spouse has reached age eligibility (65), then they can enroll in Medicare of their own accord 90 days in advance of the month they turn 65.

A: Maybe. If the employer group has 20 eligible employees or more, and you’re going to continue to work, then yes it’s an option. But there are many things to consider.

A: Part “A” is typically in place, and a paid-up benefit when you turn 65. Part “B” is not, unless you have enrolled in Social Security prior to age 65. If you have not filed to receive Social Security benefits, then you need to proactively enroll in Part “B” benefits and begin paying for them.

A: Yes. However, you will not have prescription coverage, and you will face unlimited exposure to those costs due to the gaps in Original Medicare.

A: You usually can. It’s important to be sure your doctor accepts Medicare. Some don’t.

A: Yes, for up to 100 days, after a required three-day hospital stay.

A: No. But some Advantage plans offer limited dental coverage.

A: No, a retiree plan will typically wrap around Medicare primary benefits.

A: Part “D” is the Prescription Drug plan Medicare introduced in 2006.

A: In addition to having a huge gap in coverage, you will likely face a penalty from Medicare. A Part “B” penalty can be 10% of your Part “B” premium for each 12-month period outside of Medicare, and up to 1% of the national average of a Part “D” plan for each month absent Part “D”.

A: Part “C” is another name for Medicare Advantage. Also named MA, MSA, or MA-PD (when prescriptions are included).

A: Online at SSA.gov or in person at a local Social Security office.

A: This is a Medicare term that establishes previous coverage being at least as good as Medicare’s. Typically is in play for Part “D” to avoid penalty.

A: No.
Old man and woman holding hands

What Our Clients Says

Five years ago my husband was diagnosed with prostrate cancer. That in itself was such devastating news. Then we were faced with all sorts of financial worries. Dealing with cancer is hard enough. We needed to find adequate and affordable insurace other than what we had. Backus Hospital’s financial office recommended we contact Craig. We were so pleasantly surprised to meet him. Craig seems to be able to empathize and relate to this population of folks who are older. Over the five years Craig has come to our home every year to go over our present situation and coverage. Craig will never push you on any decision. His absolute superior knowledge of the many plans is incredible. He will suggest a plan that he feels will fit your needs. Obviously, your health and or situation can change from year to year. It’s that yearly visit with Craig that we look forward to ever Fall. We trust Craig wholeheartedly with our insurance coverage. He is professional, personable, trustworthy and a very genuinely nice man. We feel so fortunate to have him in such a helping capacity.
- Phyllis and Andy Pintal, Windham Center, CT