A: Medicare does not have spousal or dependent coverage. Medicare is individual. If your spouse has reached age eligibility (65), then they can enroll in Medicare of their own accord 90 days in advance of the month they turn 65.

A: Maybe. If the employer group has 20 eligible employees or more, and you’re going to continue to work, then yes it’s an option. But there are many things to consider.

A: Part “A” is typically in place, and a paid-up benefit when you turn 65. Part “B” is not, unless you have enrolled in Social Security prior to age 65. If you have not filed to receive Social Security benefits, then you need to proactively enroll in Part “B” benefits and begin paying for them.

A: Consumers may elect to not enroll in Part D; 1) if they have creditable coverage or 2) may be subject to part D penalty. (Part D penalty is not applied if someone is receiving LIS.) Having Original Medicare means the consumer is subject to applicable deductibles, copays plus 20% of the Medicare allowed amounts for covered services.

A: You usually can. It’s important to be sure your doctor accepts Medicare. Some don’t.

A: Yes, for up to 100 days, after a required three-day hospital stay.

A: No, a retiree plan will typically wrap around Medicare primary benefits.

A: Part “D” is the Prescription Drug plan Medicare introduced in 2006.

A: In addition to having a huge gap in coverage, you will likely face a penalty from Medicare. A Part “B” penalty can be 10% of your Part “B” premium for each 12-month period outside of Medicare, and up to 1% of the national average of a Part “D” plan for each month absent Part “D”.

A: Part “C” is another name for Medicare Advantage. Also named MA, MSA, or MA-PD (when prescriptions are included).

A: Online at SSA.gov or in person at a local Social Security office.

A: This is a Medicare term that establishes previous coverage being at least as good as Medicare’s. Typically is in play for Part “D” to avoid penalty.