You might be able delay enrollment in Medicare Part B or both Parts A-B and postpone payment of Medicare costs if (1) you’re going to work past 65 years and have creditable employee coverage or (2) you have creditable coverage through your spouse’s employer. If you fall into one of these categories, you might be eligible for delaying. For more information, contact your employer’s benefits manager. You will be subject to a penalty if you fail to enroll in Part B or D by the deadline unless you have a Special Entry Period that ends with your employer’s coverage.

Original Medicare doesn’t cover prescription drugs or dental care, nor does it provide coverage for hearing and fitness. You will need to consider Medicare Advantage plans if you are looking for Medicare coverage for all of these. For prescription drug Medicare insurance benefits coverage only, you can either choose a Medicare Advantage with included drug coverage or a standalone plan.

You will pay different amounts for Medicare depending on what coverage you choose and how many health care services you use each year. You might have to pay premiums,deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. Based on your coverage, the type and amount of costs that you pay will differ. This is where it’s a good idea: Create estimates of your expenses based on the Medicare options you’re considering. This will allow you to determine the best option for your budget.

Financial Protection Tip. A Medicare Advantage plan has an annual outof-pocket limit that caps your annual outof-pocket expenses. Every Medicare Advantage plan is responsible for setting its own costs terms. All plans must also set an annual maximum out-of-pocket. After that maximum, 100% is paid for all Medicare-covered services. This is not covered by Original Medicare. Part D plans also do not offer this.

Make smart decisions about Medicare to ensure reliable coverage. But we also understand that the process can seem daunting. This guide is designed to explain Medicare and give you all the information you need to make an informed decision about your coverage options.

If you’re like most people you have a vague understanding of Medicare. But if you ask, you may not be able define it. Medicare is the national social insurance program that provides health care for people 65 years and older. Participation in the program is possible for anyone who has paid into the system.

Medicare benefits are also available for people under 65 and those with certain disabilities. Medicare does not cover all your expenses automatically. Therefore, you will need to purchase supplemental coverage to cover medical expenses that Medicare is not covering.

These are covered. Inpatients are people who need hospitalization for medical reasons. Part A may also cover you if you need to stay at a rehabilitation facility or skilled nursing facility. You might also need extended care services like home health care. This falls under Medicare Part A. Hospice care can also be offered at hospitals.

Medicare has undergone some changes over the years. Part A and Part B of Medicare were the foundations for the Medicare program. But, over the years, more parts have been added such as Medicare Part D and Part C. Part A, Part B are known as the original core of the program. Original Medicare must be your foundational coverage before you can add Part C or Part D. The next section will discuss a Medicare Supplement Plan. This is important to remember as you read.