Turning 65 and Medicare | What Do You Need to know?
- Joseph Cintron
- Apr 1
- 4 min read
Are you turning 65 and wondering how Medicare works? You’re not alone. I’m here for you.
Maybe you’re still working, have a spouse under 65, or already have health insurance through the Marketplace. Sound familiar? Then this guide is for you.
We’ll help you avoid costly penalties, answer your biggest Medicare questions, and make sure you feel confident about your choices. And if you want one-on-one help, just call for your free consultation.
3 Months Before 65: Why Planning Early Matters
Imagine it’s your birthday month—and you realize you haven’t signed up for Medicare. Now you're rushing to make decisions, unsure if you're doing it right.
That happens more often than you’d think.
Three months before turning 65 is the perfect time to start:
Check your current health coverage.
Learn about the parts of Medicare (A, B, C, and D).
Compare your options: Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and drug plans.
Understand how Medicare will impact your budget.
The earlier you start, the more control you’ll have—and the easier it is to avoid surprise costs or gaps in care.
Do I Need to Notify Social Security When I Turn 65?
If you’re already getting Social Security, Medicare Part A and B will start automatically. Easy.
But if you’re not collecting Social Security, it’s up to you to enroll. Many people assume they’ll be notified or signed up automatically—and that’s where mistakes happen.
Waiting too long to apply could leave you without coverage and with penalties that last a lifetime. Not sure what your situation is? A quick phone call can clear that up fast.
What Does Medicare Cover at Age 65?
Medicare can cover a lot—but not everything. Knowing what’s included helps you avoid unexpected bills later.
Here's a quick breakdown:
Part A covers hospital care.
Part B covers doctor visits, tests, and outpatient care.
Part D helps with prescription drugs.
Part C (Medicare Advantage) may include dental, vision, hearing, and more.
But Medicare doesn’t cover long-term care, most dental, or eyeglasses—unless you choose a plan that adds those benefits.
A lot of people only learn this after they’ve signed up. That’s why a little planning now can save a lot later.
How to Enroll When Turning 65 and Medicare Begins?
Your Initial Enrollment Period lasts 7 months: 3 months before, the month of, and 3 months after your 65th birthday.
To enroll:
Decide if Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage is better for you.
Sign up through Social Security or with expert help.
Add drug coverage or a Medicare Supplement if needed.
Enrollment can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re comparing plans alone. That’s where a licensed agent can help you sort through the noise and focus on what fits your situation.
What If I’m Still Working at 65?
Many people choose to keep working after 65—but not everyone knows the rules about Medicare and employer insurance.
If your employer has:
20 or more employees: You can delay Medicare Part B without penalty.
Fewer than 20 employees: You should enroll in Medicare, even if you're still working.
Some people pay double coverage costs by accident—others miss deadlines and face late penalties. It all depends on your job, your coverage, and your goals.
Wouldn't it be nice to know for sure what to do? A quick review with a Medicare expert can give you clarity.
Is Medicare Mandatory When Turning 65 and Medicare-Eligible?
No—but if you don’t have other qualified coverage, skipping Medicare means:
A 10% late penalty on Part B—every year, for life
Delays in coverage
A smaller window to enroll
Unless you’re fully covered by your employer or spouse’s job-based plan, it’s risky to skip Medicare. Why take chances when expert help is free?
What If I Miss the Deadline?
Let’s say you don’t enroll when you’re first eligible—and you don’t have qualified coverage. Now you face:
Higher premiums
Coverage delays
Limited times to enroll again
Sadly, this happens every year to people who simply didn’t realize they needed to act.
The good news? You still have options—but don’t wait. The longer you delay, the fewer choices you'll have.
What If My Spouse Is Younger Than 65?
Medicare only covers you—not your spouse or dependents.
If your spouse is younger than 65, they’ll need:
Their own ACA plan
COBRA or short-term coverage
Access to your employer coverage (if still available)
This is a big financial and health decision for many couples. The right plan could save you both hundreds a month—or more. You don’t have to guess your way through it.
Can I Keep My ACA Plan When I Turn 65?
Technically, yes. But once you’re eligible for Medicare, you lose subsidies through the Marketplace.
That means:
Your ACA plan will likely become much more expensive.
You could face Medicare penalties if you delay enrollment.
Your ACA coverage won’t coordinate with Medicare.
Bottom line: ACA plans are not meant for people turning 65. Medicare gives you better coverage for lower costs—if you sign up on time.
Don’t Guess Your Way Through Medicare
You’ve worked hard your whole life. Now it’s time to make the most of the benefits you’ve earned. You could save thousands of dollars a year by choosing the right Medicare plan.
Don’t let confusion, delays, or missed steps get in the way of the coverage you deserve. Whether you’re retiring, still working, or helping a spouse, you don’t have to figure this out alone.
👉 Call now for your free consultation and get clear, personalized answers—before you turn 65.
Comments