By Christian Regalado
Will you be eligible for Medicare soon? If you’ve been anticipating your move to Medicare for the first time, making the transition can seem overwhelming. After all, there are a lot of moving parts and options to consider. But don’t worry. With the right information and guidance, you’ll be armed to make informed decisions best suited for your needs.
So, when do you start? While certain groups qualify for Medicare early due to misfortunes such as being on disability for over 24 months, an ALS diagnosis, or end-stage renal disease, most of us become eligible for Medicare the month we turn 65.
If you’re already receiving Social Security benefits, you will automatically be enrolled in Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance), and your Medicare card will be mailed to you. If you’re not yet collecting Social Security, you will need to apply, ideally three months prior to your birth month. You can postpone and stay on a creditable employer plan if you prefer. Otherwise, don’t wait!
Medicare isn’t just one thing; it’s divided into different parts, each covering specific healthcare services. Part A is hospital insurance. It also covers skilled nursing facilities and hospice care. For most people, Part A is paid for through work history payroll taxes.
Part B covers outpatient services such as doctor visits, lab tests, and X-rays. Unlike Part A, you will pay a monthly premium for Part B, which for most people is $185 per month. in 2025. Higher-income individuals pay more due to the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA). If this applies to you, consulting with a financial advisor or insurance broker can help identify strategies to mitigate these costs. Medicare A and B will cover about 80% of your medical expenses.
Next, you have two primary options to consider for more comprehensive coverage. The first is purchasing a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan. These plans help fill in the gaps left by Original Medicare, and they eliminate prior approval for most procedures. If you go this route, you’ll also need to purchase a separate Part D prescription drug plan. Premiums for Part D plans can vary widely, depending on the coverage you select.
The second option is enrolling in a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C). These plans often have zero premiums and include additional benefits like dental, vision, and hearing coverage—services not included in Original Medicare. Medicare Advantage Plans are suitable for those who are budget conscious and can tolerate some level of risk as these plans have varied cost structures and can have limited provider networks.
Deciding between these options can be complex, which is why consulting with a local and knowledgeable, certified Medicare broker really helps weed through options so you can select the coverage that best fits your lifestyle, needs, and budget. Remember, a broker’s services are free to you, so please don’t hesitate to reach out. I am a neighbor nearby that you can contact at any time. We can chat over the phone or meet in person. I’m happy to help!
Email Christian@evergreenhealthins.com or call (850) 687- 7606.
Author: Sowal Editor
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