Enrolling Within Medicare

When you intend to plunge into Medicare, you register at the proper time for you. Why is timing such a huge deal? Because if you get it wrong, the mistake can cost a lot of money—not only in the short term, but for years to come—and in some cases may leave you without health coverage for months.

Surveying Cases That Impact Enrollment Timing

The timing of Medicare enrollment is critical. There is a big difference between enrolling in Medicare when retired and enrolling if you continue working beyond age 65; between qualifying due to age and qualifying due to disability; living in the U.S. versus living abroad; being married versus in another type of domestic relationship, etc. Each situation has specific rules to be aware of before signing up.

Understanding Your First Enrollment Period

The first enrollment period (FEP) is usually the earliest time you can sign up for Medicare, typically around the time you turn 65. It may happen earlier if you qualify due to disability.

Using Your EIP at Age 65

This original enrollment period lasts seven weeks—usually starting three weeks before your 65th birthday month and ending three weeks after that month.

To avoid late penalties, you should use your EIP to enroll in Medicare Part A and Part B if any of the following apply:

• You have no other health insurance.
• You have private insurance you pay for yourself.
• You have health insurance from your or your spouse’s current job.
• You have retiree benefits or COBRA coverage from a former employer or union.
• You are not covered by your spouse’s current active employment, though you are still working.
• You are covered by health insurance from your job.
• You are covered by health insurance from your spouse’s current active employment.
• You are eligible for benefits under Tricare for Life.
• You are a veteran with VA health benefits.
• You are a federal retiree with FEHB coverage.

Warning for HSA Holders Working Beyond 65

IRS rules affect anyone working past 65 with a Health Savings Account (HSA) through their employer. Here’s what it means:

• If you are an employee with an HSA at work.
• If your spouse covers you at their workplace and you are enrolled in Medicare.

Options if You Have an HSA and Are Medicare-Eligible

• You haven’t applied for Medicare or Social Security retirement benefits.
• You are enrolled in Part A but haven’t applied for Social Security retirement benefits.
• You’ve already applied for or are receiving Social Security retirement benefits.
• You are receiving Social Security disability benefits but may return to work.

Enrolling in Other Specific Situations

• You are a legal permanent resident.
• You live outside the U.S.
• You are working overseas.
• You do not qualify for premium-free Part A.
• You are enrolling in Part D drug coverage.
• You are in a nontraditional marriage or domestic partnership.
• You are incarcerated.

This Medicare resource was provided by Amerus Insurance Group, a nationwide independent agency that helps seniors confidently compare plan options, control out-of-pocket costs, and enroll with the right coverage for their doctors, prescriptions, and lifestyle. Whether you’re new to Medicare or reviewing your current plan, speak with an Amerus advisor for a free, personalized consultation.