Q: I'm turning 65 this year and I plan to retire. When am I eligible to enroll into Medicare?
Assuming you have met the work-related eligibility requirements, you may begin enrollment into Medicare 90 days in advance of the month you turn 65.
Q: Do I need to enroll in Part "A" and Part 'B" of Medicare?
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.
Q: Can I just have "Original medicare" A + B as my health insurance at retirement?
Yes. However, you will not have prescription coverage, and you will face unlimited exposure to those costs due to the gaps in Original Medicare.
Q: What is Part "D"?
Part "D" is the Prescription Drug plan. Medicare introduced this in 2006.
Q: What is Part "C"?
Part "C" is another name for Medicare Advantage. Also named MA, MSA, or MA-PD (when prescriptions are included).
Q: Should I have both a Medicare Advantage Plan and a Medicare Supplement Plan?
No