FAQs for Medicare

Medicare is health insurance from the federal government. It is mainly for people age 65 and older. It helps pay for hospital visits, doctor visits, and other medical care.

Medicare has four parts: Part A helps pay for hospital stays. Part B helps pay for doctor visits and outpatient care. Part C (Medicare Advantage) is offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. Part D helps pay for prescription drugs.

You can sign up during a 7-month window around your 65th birthday: 3 months before your birthday The month of your birthday 3 months after your birthday

Not always. If you are still working and have health insurance through your employer, you may be able to delay. It depends on your situation.

You may have to wait to enroll later and could face a penalty, which means paying more each month.

Medicare Advantage plans combine your coverage into one plan and usually have provider networks. Medicare Supplement plans help pay costs that Medicare does not cover and allow more flexibility with doctors.

Costs vary based on your coverage. Many people do not pay for Part A, but most pay a monthly premium for Part B. There may also be deductibles, copays, and other costs.

Not automatically. You need a Part D plan or a Medicare Advantage plan that includes drug coverage.

Original Medicare usually does not cover these services. Some plans may include these benefits.

With Original Medicare, you can see most doctors who accept Medicare. With Medicare Advantage, you usually need to use doctors in the plan’s network.

Most people are eligible when they turn 65. Some people under 65 may qualify due to certain disabilities or conditions.

Medicare does not cover everything. It usually does not cover dental care, routine vision care, hearing aids, or long-term care.

Most people enroll during their Initial Enrollment Period around age 65. There are also other enrollment periods depending on your situation.

The Annual Enrollment Period runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. You can make changes to your coverage during this time.

It depends. If you have employer coverage, you may be able to delay Part B. It is important to review your situation first.

You can request a new card by logging into Medicare.gov, calling Medicare, or contacting Social Security.

This program allows you to spread out the cost of prescription drugs over time. Availability and details may vary by plan.

It depends on your situation. You should compare costs, coverage, and provider access before deciding.

No. You may still have deductibles, copays, and coinsurance.

Yes, some programs may help based on income and resources. Availability may vary by state.

Some people are automatically enrolled if they are already receiving Social Security benefits. If not, you will need to sign up.

Some people pay more based on their income. This is determined using tax information and may change over time.

No. Once you are enrolled in Medicare, you can no longer contribute to an HSA. You can still use the money already in it.

No. However, delaying certain parts without other coverage may result in penalties later.