Seniorsurance

When You Should Join Medicare

when you should join Medicare

"When Should I Join Medicare to Avoid Penalties?"


What is the most common question when it comes to people approaching Medicare? “When Should I Join Medicare to Avoid Penalties?”


Most people are aware that there are penalties for not enrolling in time, but are not necessarily sure how these penalties are applied and the causes for being penalized. Like most things, sometimes Medicare gets pushed to the back burner. Last minute enrollments and plan changes potentially lead to some issues, and more often than not the penalties you may have heard of.


According to Medicare, folks must be enrolled in Medicare or another accepted insurance plan at the time of their 65th birthday. When you follow this rule, you can safely avoid facing the penalties that can cost you for years down the road. We find that most people are easily able to join Medicare when they turn 65, as they are aware that it is something they must do.


Enrolling in Medicare, for many people we help, involves signing up for Part A and Part B of Medicare. But, there are some special cases in which folks will already have been enrolled in these Parts of Medicare (A and B.)


The majority of people who will be enrolled in Medicare before their 65th birthday are the folks who have been using their Social Security for 4 months before they turn 65.


So, to answer the main question: Everyone has a seven month window in order to be enrolled in Medicare on time to avoid penalties. This window includes 3 months before your 65th birthday, the month of your birthday, and 3 months after your 65th birthday. As long as you enroll within this time frame, you will be able to avoid any sort of penalties that come with enrolling at the wrong time.


Avoiding Coverage Gaps


However, it is important to avoid coverage gaps. How do you avoid them? For example, most people who wait to enroll during, or after, their 65th birthday will experience a coverage gap. This happens because there is often a delay between enrolling in Medicare and actually having the coverage.


You can avoid these gaps by ensuring you begin the enrollment process about 3 months before your 65th birthday. When we work with folks, we take the time to find the exact plans that you will benefit most from. And then when you see these plans, it is best to not rush into the first plan you see. When you begin the process early, you can take time and make the most informed decisions for yourself.


Getting Help With Medicare 


There are a few ways we can help you enroll in Medicare, or at least get started on the road to enrollment.


Fill out the Help Form


Simply fill out the contact form, and we will get back to you! We are happy to answer any questions and address any concerns folks have.


Contact us for 1-on-1 Help


Some folks just want to get answers quickly, and we are here to help. For those who don’t mind talking on the phone, we welcome you to call us. In a short 15-min conversation, you can learn what you need to know and get on the right track. We never force you to buy or enroll. We are here to inform you , so you can make the best decisions for yourself. (954) 737-1030.

Your Guide to Medicare Preventive Screenings

By Tammy Vohs • October 30, 2023
 Medicare offers a range of preventive services to help beneficiaries stay on top of their health and detect potential issues early, before they become major concerns. Let's explore what's covered, why it's crucial, and how you can make the most of these services. Understanding Preventive Screening Services Medicare's preventive screening services are a valuable resource for maintaining your well-being as you age. These screenings are designed to identify health issues in their early stages, making treatment more effective and potentially saving lives. You May Be Automatically Reassigned to a Different Medicare Plan Next Year Every year, many people enrolled in Medicare Advantage and/or Part D Standalone plans are automatically "crosswalked" into another plan for next year. Normally, you will be notified if you are in this group but we are more than happy to help you know for sure. What's Covered? Medicare covers various preventive services, including: Screenings: Medicare covers screenings for a variety of diseases and conditions, including cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis. Vaccinations: Medicare covers shots for a variety of diseases, including the flu, pneumonia, and hepatitis B. Counseling: Medicare covers counseling for a variety of topics, including smoking cessation, weight loss, and diabetes management. It's important to be aware of these covered services, as they can be a proactive step toward a healthier life. Why Are Preventive Screenings Important? Preventive screenings are a crucial component of healthcare, and here's why: Early Detection: They catch health issues in their early stages when they are most treatable. Cost-Effective: Preventive care is often less expensive than treating advanced diseases. Better Quality of Life: Early intervention can lead to improved health and well-being. In Conclusion Staying informed about the preventive screening services covered by Medicare is vital for your health. These services not only promote early detection but also offer peace of mind and a pathway to a healthier and more fulfilling life. So, schedule those screenings, be proactive about your well-being, and make the most of the resources available through Medicare. For more detailed information on Medicare's covered preventive screening services, please visit Medicare.gov's webpage on this topic at https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/preventive-screening-services . If you have questions about your coverage for preventive services or are exploring your options for Medicare plans, don't hesitate to contact us. We are here to assist you and ensure you have the knowledge and resources to make informed decisions about your healthcare.
Medicare Plan Change

How Can Your Current Medicare Plan Change Next Year?

By Tammy Vohs • October 15, 2023
Are you curious about how your current Medicare plan may change next year? This blog post will provide you with important information about potential changes and how to prepare for them. Learn about the different factors that can affect your plan, as well as tips on how to make sure you are covered in the event of any changes. Keep up to date with the latest developments in Medicare and make sure you are prepared for any changes that may come.
Medicare Advantage Plans

How to Compare Medicare Advantage Plans

By John Ellis • December 19, 2022
Confused about how to compare Medicare Advantage plans? This blog post will guide you through the process of researching and comparing plan options. Learn about the different types of Advantage plans available, as well as some key criteria to consider when making your decision. Find out how to compare plan costs, coverage, and other important factors to make sure you choose the right plan for you.
Share by: