Turning 65? What You Need to Know about Medicare

Are you approaching the age of 65? If so, you’re not alone. Thousands of baby boomers are turning 65 each year from now until 2030. And what’s so important about turning 65? This is when you enroll in Medicare, and if you miss the deadline, you may face penalties. That’s why it’s important to understand Medicare, its options, and what you need to sign up for and when. Read on to learn more about Medicare and how AZ Medicare Options can help.
There are a number of different options you need to consider when signing up for Medicare. To break it down, Medicare is made up of four parts as follows:

Part A

Covers Hospital Stays (includes Medigap policies)

Part B

Covers Physician Costs (includes Medigap policies)

Part C

Medicare Advantage – Permits Medicare beneficiaries to receive their medical care (will cover the part A, part B, and part D) from among a number of delivery options.

Part D

Covers Prescription Medications

The Medicare enrollment process starts three months before your 65th birthday and continues for 7 months after your 65th birthday. If you already receive Social Security Benefits, then you will automatically be enrolled in Medicare. Otherwise, you need to sign up for Medicare by calling the Social Security Administration at 800-772-1213 or online at http://www.socialsecurity.gov/medicareonly/. Do this as soon as the enrollment period starts to make sure you are covered when you turn 65 and avoid any penalties.