Working past 65 with employer coverage Medicare enrollment can generally be delayed without penalty when there is creditable group health coverage from an employer (employee or spouse)
Special Enrollment Period (SEP) After employer coverage ends, an 8-month window opens to enroll in Part B penalty-free. Missing this window can trigger a lifetime Part B late enrollment penalty
In many situations, Original Medicare with Plan G and a Part D plan delivers coverage that's as good as or better than what most people had during their working years through an employer
Before delaying Medicare, know the rules
Choosing Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Choosing Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Choosing Original Medicare with Medigap
Premiums are typically lower — some plans have $0 monthly premium
Bundles Part D drug coverage (Original Medicare does not)
Often includes extra benefits: dental, vision, hearing, gym memberships, OTC allowances
Annual out-of-pocket maximum (Original Medicare has none without Medigap)
Familiar HMO or PPO structure
Heavy advertising and broker marketing make MA the most visible option
Choosing Original Medicare with Medigap
Choosing Original Medicare with Medigap
Choosing Original Medicare with Medigap
Accepted by any provider that accepts Medicare — the vast majority nationally
Better for frequent travelers (no network restrictions)
Far fewer prior authorization requirements compared to Medicare Advantage
Predictable out-of-pocket costs with Plan G (only the annual Part B deductible)
Stable, federally standardized benefits that don't change year to year
Original Medicare protections and rules
Choosing Original Medicare with Medigap
Original Medicare protections and rules
Medigap Open Enrollment 6-month window starting when enrolled in Part B at 65, during which carriers cannot deny coverage or charge more based on health
Plan G coverage covers the 20% Original Medicare doesn't (except the annual Part B deductible)
Continuous coverage as long as Original Medicare is maintained, Medigap continues without re-underwriting
Limited switching protections exceptions exist where someone can move from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare with guaranteed Medigap issue (plan discontinued, moved out of service area, first-year trial right)
State-specific rules apply some states (like California's birthday rule) offer additional protections — worth researching locally
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