6 Months Before Turning 65:

• Explore the ABCD’s of Medicare. 
  • Read about Parts A & B
  • Read about Part C
  • Read about Part D
  • Read about Medigap
• Does your work history (or current/former spouse’s) qualify you for coverage? 
• Learn how other coverage works with Medicare.
• Make sense of the costs of Medicare. 
  • Read about Parts A & B costs
  • Read about Part C costs
  • Read about Part D costs
  • Read about Medigap costs
  • Learn about getting help with costs
• Understand your enrollment options. 
  • Plan to enroll on time to avoid penalties and delays in coverage, depending on when is best for you.
  • If you plan to enroll in your Initial Enrollment Period, set a reminder for yourself for 3 months before your 65th birthday.

4 Months Before Turning 65:

• Compare plans for coverage packages
• Calculate costs per month/year for:
  • Premiums
  • Deductibles
  • Copays & coinsurance

3 Months Before Your 65th Birthday:

• Enroll in Part A during your Initial Enrollment Period. You should also enroll in Part B unless you are eligible for a Special Enrollment Period.
• Confirm receipt of Medicare card(s).
• Make sure to ask these important questions:
  • Will I have to choose hospital and healthcare providers from a network?
  • Will my doctors accept the coverage? If not, are there doctors near me who will?
  • Will I need referrals to visit specialists?
  • Will the plan cover me if I get sick while traveling in another state?
  • What will my prescription drugs cost?
  • Are my drugs on the plan’s drug list (or formulary)?
  • Does the plan include the pharmacies I currently use?
  • Can I get my prescriptions through the mail?
  • Does the plan have a good quality rating?