Choosing to sign up for Medicare is an important decision that involves a number of factors you may need to consider. The decision you make will depend on your situation and the type of health insurance you have.
Choosing to sign up for Medicare is an important decision that involves a number of issues you may need to consider. The decision you make will depend on your situation and the type of health insurance you have. You may be able to delay signing up for Medicare Part B without a late enrollment penalty if you or your spouse (or a family member, if you’re disabled) is working, and you’re receiving creditable health insurance benefits based on current employment.
In most cases, if you don't sign up for Part B when you're first eligible, you'll have to pay a late enrollment penalty for as long as you have Part B.
Coverage based on current employment does not include:
- COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act);
- Retiree health coverage;
- VA (Veterans Affairs) health coverage; or
- Individual health coverage (like through the Health Insurance Marketplace).
More information
Find out how your coverage works with Medicare at Medicare.gov or contact your employer or union benefits administrator.
Our team can help you analyze your options and determine what insurance is most cost effective and provides ideal covereage for your personal needs.
Retirement Toolkit (Department of Labor)
Read the official pamphlet, Handbook- Medicare & You for more general information.