Turning 65? We're here for you!
Experience PrimeTime Health Plan!
Beyond the cake, gifts, trips down memory lane, and family gatherings, turning 65 is often the first step on a journey you’ve never taken before – Medicare enrollment.
PrimeTime Health Plan is ready to greet you at the starting point, as we have for people just like you in our community since 1997.
There are different ways to enroll, depending on your situation.
Scenario A – You’re receiving benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) prior to age 65 - you’ll be automatically enrolled in Original Medicare (Parts A & B) on the first day of your birthday month.
Scenario B – If you’re not receiving Social Security benefits and want Medicare the month you turn 65 - you should enroll by contacting Social Security at least 3 months before your birthday month. The easiest way is to enroll online at the Social Security website.
Scenario C – You are awarded Disability under the age of 65 – after 24 months, in most cases, you can enroll.
What are Parts A and B?
Part A covers hospital stays. It’s usually free if you or a spouse has worked and paid Medicare taxes for 40 quarters, which is around 10 years.
Part B covers your doctor visits and outpatient services. Most people pay a monthly premium, however, if you are considered a high earner, you pay more. Social Security automatically deducts the amount from your monthly check.
What are Parts C and D?
Part C means private Medicare Advantage plan. This is where PrimeTime Health Plan comes in. We are contracted with Medicare and can provide valuable benefits that are not included in Original Medicare, in areas like dental, vision, hearing aids, over-the-counter, gym memberships, and more. We also offer Part D prescription drug plans, with zero-dollar deductibles.
Do I need Part D?
You are not required to sign up for Part D insurance. However, if you postpone enrolling and suddenly need help paying for prescriptions, you will face late penalties and, possibly, delayed coverage. The exception is if you already have “creditable” drug coverage from a former employer, union, the VA, etc. “Creditable” means that it’s expected to pay at least as much as Medicare drug coverage.
What if I'm still working or my spouse is?
If you’re still working and covered under your employer's health insurance – or if your spouse is working and you are covered under their health insurance, you may be able to delay your enrollment.
How long do I have to enroll?
You have seven months to enroll around your birthday month. Your IEP (Initial Enrollment Period) begins three months before the month you turn 65 and ends three months after your birthday month.
What happens if I miss enrolling during my IEP (Initial Enrollment Period?)
You may be subject to a late enrollment penalty. You may also have to wait until the general enrollment period to sign up for Part B (January 1 to March 31 each year).
Where can I get more help?
Give our friendly team at PrimeTime Health Plan a call. We also provide in-person meetings and webinars on general Medicare education, as well as the specific plans we offer. We are happy to look at your unique situation and give you healthcare recommendations tailored to your life and budget. There is never an obligation to enroll. Advice is free. You’ll be glad you did.
Check out our list of in-person meetings!
Request FREE PrimeTime Health Plan information mailed directly to you!
