What you NEED to know about Medicare.

1. When can I get Medicare benefits?

Unless you are disabled, the answer is 65. Even if you retire early and claim your social security benefits at 62, you must still wait until 65 to be covered by Medicare.

2. How do I apply for Medicare

If you are already receiving Social Security retirement benefits when you turn 65, you will be automatically enrolled in Parts A and B. You should receive your Medicare card approximately 3 months before you turn 65.

If you aren't already receiving Social Security retirement benefits when you turn 65, you will have to apply for Medicare. This is quite easy on the Social Security Administration website. Your initial enrollment period begins 3 months before the month of your 65th birthday and extends 3 months after.

3.What are the "parts" of Medicare?

There are 4 Parts of Medicare

• Part A - Hospital Insurance, or HI. Coverage is for hospital and nursing facility stays

• Part B - Medical Insurance. Coverage for medical services and supplies that are medically necessary to treat your health condition; doctors' visits, lab tests, outpatient procedures, and more.

• Part C - Medicare Advantage. Plans offered by private companies.

• Part D - Prescription Drug Coverage. This is optional.

4. How much does Medicare cost?

Medicare Part A is free to most American Seniors with a deductible of $1,340 per benefit period.

Medicare Part B has a monthly premium of $134, with a deductible of $183 (or higher depending on your income).

Part D, prescription drug coverage, has a monthly premium of $35.

5. What IS NOT covered by Medicare?

Some items and services include:

• Cosmetic surgery

• Acupuncture

• Most dental care

• Long-term care

• Eye exams (prescribing glasses)

• Hearing aids and fittings

• Routine foot care

6.What is Medigap?

Medigap policies are sold by private companies. It is a supplemental insurance that helps pay some health care costs that original Medicare does not.

7. If I have health insurance through my employer. Do I have to enroll and pay for my Medicare at the age of 65?

If you (or your spouse) has coverage through a current or former employer, it is still important to understand and make Medicare enrollment decisions. Since Part A is free, there is no reason to delay signing up. However, Part B is a premium, and if you already have employer insurance you may want to hold off and use your current coverage.

We provide current, clear, and trustworthy information to help make Medicare easier to understand.

Your Medicare plan is out there. Let's find it together.