New to Medicare?
Start Here.
If you’re just getting started with Medicare, here are some simple tips to help guide you.
Do You Need Medicare Right Now?
You should sign up for Parts A & B if:
You’re retiring
You work for a company with fewer than 20 employees
You’re self-employed
👉 If you’re still working for a company with 20 or more employees, you don’t have to enroll in Part B yet.
⚠️ Important for HSA users:
Stop contributing the month before you start Medicare.
If you’re over 65 and planning to enroll later, stop contributing 6 months before joining.
This is general guidance—everyone’s situation is different. Reach out to me to get no-cost, personalized help.
How to Enroll in Medicare (Parts A & B)
You can enroll:
Online at SSA.gov
By calling Social Security (expect long waits)
Or by making an appointment at your local office
💡 Tip: Start the process 3 months before your birthday month so your benefits are ready on time.
✅ Already collecting Social Security before age 65?
You’ll be automatically enrolled in Parts A & B when you turn 65. Look for a letter from Social Security in the mail—it will include more information and important details.
Paying Your Part B Premium
If you get Social Security payments: your Part B premium is automatically deducted.
If you don’t: you’ll get a bill for 3 months at once, with several payment options—including monthly.
To make things easier, sign up for Medicare Easy Pay. It automatically adjusts for premium changes and helps avoid missed payments.
💡 Important: If your income is above certain limits, you may have to pay an extra amount called IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount). If this applies to you, Social Security will send you a separate letter letting you know your adjusted premium.
Now that you’ve enrolled— What’s Next?
Should You Get Extra Coverage?
Original Medicare doesn’t cover everything. Most people add a private plan to fill the gaps:
Option 1: Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
Works with Original Medicare
Helps pay deductibles, copays, and coinsurance
Option 2: Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Replaces Original Medicare
Often includes prescription drug coverage and extra benefits like dental or vision
Need Help?
Medicare.gov and 1-800-Medicare can show you plan options, but they can’t recommend what’s best for you. That’s where I come in!
As a licensed local agent, I:
Compare all your options in one place
Explain your choices in plain language
Support you at no cost, with no obligation
Calling an insurance company directly often means long wait times and less support. With me, you’ll have personal guidance every step of the way.
