The deadlines, the choices and where to get free help, without the jargon. Written for neighbors in Havertown, Media, Springfield, Upper Darby, Drexel Hill, Broomall and the rest of Delaware County.
Seven months: the three months before your birthday month, that month, and the three after. Sign up early in the window so coverage can start on time.
Switch between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, change Advantage plans, or join or change a Part D drug plan. New coverage starts January 1.
If you're in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can make one switch to another Advantage plan or go back to Original Medicare.
Your best window to buy a Medigap (supplement) policy: it starts the month you're 65 or older and enrolled in Part B. During it, insurers can't turn you down or charge more for health problems.
Still working with coverage from a large employer? You may be able to delay Part B without a penalty. Check with your employer's benefits office before you skip it: the Part B late penalty is 10% for each full year you could have had it and didn't, for as long as you have Part B.
Run by the federal government. See any doctor or hospital in the U.S. that takes Medicare. Most people add a Part D drug plan, and many add a Medigap policy to cover the 20% that Part B doesn't.
Private plans approved by Medicare that bundle hospital, medical and usually drug coverage, often with extras like dental or vision. Most use a network of doctors, so check that yours are in it.
Neither is "best" for everyone. It comes down to your doctors, your prescriptions, how much you travel and how you'd rather pay: steadier premiums or lower premiums with costs when you use care.
We're lining up licensed Medicare agents who live and work in Delaware County, for when you'd rather sit down with someone. Want a heads-up when that's ready? Email hello@delco65.com.