Medicare & You: Deciding to Sign Up for Medicare Part B

[@richardlim2426]

I have just submitted my application for Part B...as I was originally covered by my spouse's insurance plan with her employer. Now she just retired on 07/01, and we are signing up with Kaiser to continue our coverage, but, Kaiser need my Part B, hence I need it right away in order to be covered.

[@cheryljergens9970]

This is total BS. I work fulltime as a nurse and I just turned 66 this month. I will start drawing SS next month. I signed up for Part A, but not Part B. I belong to Christian Healthcare Ministries (which is a coop), am on no medications and haven't had to go to the doctor for 2 years. Medicare doesn't accept CHM as an insurance company, so I will be penalized for not signing up for Part B. They will automatically deduct it from my benefits WITH A PENALTY anyway. What a crooked system!

[@bradthaggard7345]

I have signed up for part b and fall under the special enrollment period. I have sent all the paperwork in 3 times and finally hand delivered them this last time. It has still been 4 months so far and it still hasn’t been added. They tell me that all the information has been entered and we just have to wait. Our tax dollars hard at work.

[@bettydrake2199]

This information is readily available from many sources. Why don't you simplify the process with the time and money you are using to continually try to explain it. An aging population would like it to be simpler and better . That' s all .

[@teresachase5474]

Please address federal CSRS retirees that are covered under FEHP. This video was not at all helpful for me.

[@leeabe3932]

They never explain why enrollment penalties exist. It's just one of the most hurtful things they have in a slew of confusing systems to make their lives comfortable and our lives miserable.

[@stanbrouard7729]

It's a too long of an answer to address here, but it actually makes sense. Reach out to me at 321-576-6109 for a clear explanation.

[@connieefurulee]

@@stanbrouard7729 Stan I know this is an older question but I wish you would give the short version of the long answer here because I’m confused and would like to know why possibly penalized up tp 40% for years. Thanks if you respond

[@cjjohnson9413]

Brock what are you typing? I knew Medicare was going to start up at 65 but; having moved around a lot I didn't receive my card and correspondence to return since I have health insurance through my wife. So the big issue is that they need to receive something through the mail as a confirmation of your choice. Not just auto enroll you

[@stephaniemaynard6783]

Yeah what's up with involuntary enrollment? Does it have something to do with the Auto Insurance Companies?

[@valerieerwin7755]

Trying to find out if I am covreed for a recliner/lift chair with Medicare? thank you

[@cjjohnson9413]

Oh and the reps can be alittle more patient. The first rep he seem young tried to dominate the conversation. I answered his 20 questions and finally it was my turn to ask questions like what did he think happened to my paper work submitted in March 2016? But he wanted to dominate the conversation and when I wouldn't let him he hung up on me after spending 1 hour of my time waiting for the call back. Solomon can suck me sideways!

[@singstar2431]

I have been trying to get back on part b, due to covid my husband has been laid off since march. I have no medical insurance. No word from anyone in medicare or social security about my status. I keep faxing and mailing

[@RonRicoRich]

Broker available if you still need one. Ron Rivers 732-586-3836

[@michael.c.fischbach]

Did you go in person or call a local Social Security offices?

[@cjjohnson9413]

I propose a change to automatic enrollment at age 65. You should have to do something to enroll. What if you move around a lot and didn't get your mail in a timely manner. You become automatically enrolled without your approval. Now you have double coverage that you don't need because you have your wife's insurance. I have paid over 2400.00 for coverage that I didn't need. Now I'm trying to get removed and it's been tough. I sent a letter after talking to a representative in March 2016 and I'm still enrolled! Called today 7/20 and finally after my second letter I'm being removed. What a hassle! I'm going down to SS and try to get some of my money back....

[@brock2k1]

How can anybody living in the US be so dumb that he doesn't know that Medicare starts at 65? Next, you'll tell us that you didn't realize you need a license to drive a car.

[@elizabethhill8936]

If you have coverage through an employer, you DO NOT USUALLY need Medicare B.

[@RitaEarlePeterson]

Elizabeth Hill BUT will you be penalized ~~if and when ~~you decide later in life you want to change to part B??

[@starkravenmad3206]

@@brock2k1 not all circumstances are alike. It’s not as simple as you think it is.

[@BynkyBoo]

Yes you will still unfortunately be penalized.

[@miroslavastyle8462]

Okay I'm ready to Apply for Part B

[@carolbroadnax1059]

Do we have to choose to have the part B premiums paid out of our social security funds?

[@michael.c.fischbach]

Social Security or Bank Draft(EFT) deductions for Part B premium is monthly. If you choose direct billing through snail mail than you will be bill the Part B premium quarterly(3 months) at a time.

[@jackeycouch4794]

I originally signed up fpr pat A and B. My husband lost his job, so I dropped part B, as I was working and had ins. through my job. How do I now sign up for part B and will I have to pay a penalty. I am still working.

[@lindakehoe6195]

I turned 65 yesterday and this is the most confusing bunch of BS I have every seen. HSA gone, the only tax break I had left; primary care provider gone because she doesn't accept Medicare (now I know why). If I could opt out of the entire system I would in heartbeat.

[@stanbrouard7729]

It's not quite THAT hopeless. 321.204.6868 for help or good luck.

[@marygruenberg1006]

It sounds like you previously had a HSA plan that you liked prior to qualifying for Medicare. While it isn't available in all states, my agency is able to offer a MSA option for Medicare. You may want to consider checking that option out if you liked your HSA. Good luck!

[@mattyjdyoutub]

You can always pay cash and avoid the confusion. Expensive but your choice.

[@forgetmenotdance1]

I am enrolled in a Part B Plan. How do I or can I change Plans?

[@marieluciano1274]

i applied for Disability in 2012 was approved but was never told that i had to get part B and bc i had medicaid at the time i didn't think i needed to get part B.. so when i turned 65 they penalized me, so mow i pay for Part B double 243.00 monthly i think this is so unfair i didn't know i could apply for B i was 52 and had benefits ive tried to fight it but to no avail...SS is always right

[@michael.c.fischbach]

Did you request a reconsideration from a Human at the local Social Security Office? Try looking up an elder law or attorney that specializes in the aging seniors.

[@miroslavastyle8462]

What is the first thing I do to apply for Part B?

[@trout6608]

I Did Not Sign Up for Medicare Part B , Why Was It Forced On Me ? What Can I Do To Remove It ?

[@marieluciano1274]

if you drop it you might be penalized so n careful. GOOD LUCK

[@RitaEarlePeterson]

I am retired CSRS with my BC/BS service benefit plan which is paid automatically from my monthly annuity. After turning 65 i signed up for medicare (SIX MONTHS after turning 65 October last year) due to caretaking my son with a major disability of bone cancer). I know no excuses, but when i got my medicare card it doesn’t kick in till June 2020 and theres a Medicare part B that kicks in July 2020. I haven’t signed up for medicare B plan with anyone. My BC/BS covers everything! Outpatient- prescriptions etc. so why am i getting penalized for signing up at 65 years of age (and not at 64 years, 9 months?!? Why do i need part B while i am already paying for full medical coverage under a government service benefit plan with CSRS? Doesn’t seem fair to me. And i got no amswer from medicare/social security other than its the law.

[@miladypimentel-pinedo3089]

I Mrs. Rita. You need to have the proof of cover from CSRS and them get appointment with the social security to show them your cover and ask them what is the step to remove your part B and ask if you going to have penalty when you not get more cover from CSRS. Hope that help.

[@riarivers-hilton7985]

@@miladypimentel-pinedo3089 CMS and the SSA will FIND every excuse available as to why he/she HAS TO pay the penalty fee. Its more money in their bank and red tape.

[@mikeseppy7163]

Why don't they explain what part B covers?

[@ericlamchick6791]

Most people speak to an experienced Medicare adviser who can answer all your questions. facebook.com/medicarespecialistpro

[@marieluciano1274]

bc it would make it easier

[@rike77586]

I am still working for a very large company. I kept my Blue Cross coverage and plan on keeping Blue Cross until I retire. I am eligible for Medicare Part A and Part B. But because I'm still working I've opted out of Part B and only requested Part A and will continue with Part A until I fully retire in the next couple years. Also, I'm a retired Veteran and I'm eligible for Tri Care. Your message about Part B and Tri Care isn't clear. Once I request and opt in for Medicare Part B I am again eligible for Tri Care.

[@AffordableMedicareSupplements]

Since you have Tricare, once you stop working, and go off the employer plan, you can enroll into Medicare Part B. You'll need CMS40B and CMSL564 forms completed. Tricare turns into Tricare for Life when you have Parts A&B and you won't need a supplement or separate Part D plan. More info on the TFL site. www.tricare.mil/tfl Hope this helps you, and thank you for serving.

[@AffordableMedicareSupplements]

I recorded this video, which will show you how to sign up for Part B when you retire, you can do it online pretty easily. kzbin.info/www/bejne/eHjQpHl_pZKjiK8

[@kimO.7439]

How do you opt out of part b? Someone wrote above that they automatically sign you up for part b and it's really difficult to get out of it. I'm trying to circumvent that by knowing how to opt out or say I don't want part b. My husband will still be working so I don't need part b until he retires. Thanks for any help.

[@sherribarnett1969]

@@kimO.7439 You have to notify both Medicare and Social Security in writing as well as by phone or online.

[@kimO.7439]

@@sherribarnett1969 I talked to Medicare the other day. They said I am automatically enrolled in A and B and then when I get the card in the mail to mark that I want to defer part B and mail it back. This is what they told me to do. That is how you notify them.

[@mohammedwaheed1700]

My wife turns 65 next September. When and where should she sign up for Medicare? She’s already receiving her Soc Security

[@stanbrouard7729]

Call Social Security 800.772.1213 then call 321.204.6868 to guide you with the selection/decision process. Never too early.

[@kimO.7439]

She is automatically signed up because she is getting benefits. She will get her insurance card in the mail.

[@miroslavastyle8462]

Why didn't I get automatically signed up when I was enrolled in Medical and I was already receiving Social Security for 7 years now, but have been disabled for 20 years now.

[@miroslavastyle8462]

Why didn't I receive my insurance card in the mail.

[@miroslavastyle8462]

And I am already receiving benefits to.

[@g.esmith6216]

How do you opt out of medicare? I am reciving soicial security, a resident of Italy, and have health care. I have no intention of ever returning to the USA. Is medicare even valid overseas?

[@bettys375]

Preventive

[@janetadam7172]

If a person has an individual off market health insurance plan, can they keep this plan and opt out of part B when turning 65 without paying a penalty for later enrolment?

[@kellyvassey9735]

NO, BECAUSE YOU ARE ELIGIBLE FOR MEDICARE YOU WILL LOSE YOUR ACA COVERAGE

[@RitaEarlePeterson]

Kelly Vassey whats ACA coverages and why can’t Janet choose part B when and if she decides to drop current full coverage? They do it for Part D prescription coverage!

[@kittyo3198]

I turned 65 last May but did not get PART B only PART A because my income is only less $600. I also have medical and Community Health Group Insurance, If I get PART B, do I have to pay the monthly premium? Or does Medical covered my premium? Thank you for your advise.

[@IceSkater8491]

You need to call Medicare and find out. They are well informed and easy to talk to, so you won't have a problem.

[@allenmicelli7980]

@@IceSkater8491 thanks Vickie

[@betsybaer5465]

My husband starting teaching before medicare was enacted. He was then offered the option of staying on his old retirement plan or going with SOCIAL SECURITY where medicare would be deducted . He opted for his old plan (No soc sec,no medicare). He retired at 58,paid for his insurance through his school board. When he turned 65 he continued to pay for his insurance. Now at 76 midway through this year they have stopped covering him and said he must have medicare ,this after 11 years of coverage after his 65th birthday. Medicare says open enrollment isn't until jan..and medicare wont kick in until July. This leaves him basically uninsured for almost a year..what recourse does he have..HELP!!

[@teresastockdale1484]

Betsy, Hi, my name is Teresa and did anyone ever answer your question, even though it has been a month ago. I would be glad to answer it if you are still interested or need further assistants.

[@tlwsr7]

@@teresastockdale1484, Please answer anyway if you know the answer. Thanks.

[@teresastockdale1484]

@@tlwsr7, what is the question?

[@dbamed]

Similar situation here. I am covered under my husbands employer health ins. When I started getting social. sec., they took out of my pay for med. part A & B. I didn't think I needed part B because of my existing coverage. All was good until this year our deductible is $6, 800+ per year! If I had part B, I could get a lot of that paid for, at least I think so.....So confusing! I can wait till open enrollment but I need a knew replacement before then. It seems impossible to get a straight answer from anyone!

[@dbamed]

I forgot to say that I asked SSA to remove the Part B. They did but I did not get any kind of refund for the few months I didn't need it but had not had them to take it off. They would not remove Part A.

[@charliewoodson9501]

confusingly unhelpful.

[@stevelaminack1516]

The whole system is UNREASONABLY confusing and rigged.

[@starkravenmad3206]

Our tax dollars at work🤯

[@sharleneplescia6276]

It takes research. I am retired drawing pension and social security but my husband is still working and we have health coverage through his work. I don't believe, from research so far, that signing up for part b will be helpful at all. I have no intention of signing up for medicare at all while I have health coverage already unless my husband's health plan says it will reduce my copays and other healthcare costs in a big way. What I am not clear on is what the costs are for signing up for medicare or even just for part b.

[@katebutler7872]

You are automatically signed up for part A when you reach retirement age. Part b you wont need until you lose your work insurance.

[@stanbrouard7729]

Sharlene, or anyone else with Medicare questions. I know your question was asked 2 years ago, but if you're still or newly confused, I have answers. 321-576-6109

[@adea.macgregor6685]

@@stanbrouard7729 are you a Medicare expert? Can I call you for answers? Regards, AM.

[@Now_lets_get_this_straight]

I realize this was a couple of years ago but one of the comments said that Part A is automatically signed up for you, but I believe that’s only if you have a government connected relationship. Just wanted to add a comment so if anyone is still reading this in 2020, they need to research that subject. I had to register for Part A. And of course you know the Part B monthly premium is raised each year. I use to think that doing taxes was hard but trying to figure Medicare out is ridiculous.

[@stanbrouard7729]

@@adea.macgregor6685 I am so sorry for not seeing this before today. I am sure you no longer need my input, but Yes you may call on me at anytime. 321.576.6109

[@peggyleemazziotti9353]

I need CMS form 1763 Where can I find it

[@miladypimentel-pinedo3089]

www.cms.gov/Medicare/CMS-Forms/CMS-Forms/CMS-Forms-Items/CMS017353 www.templateroller.com/template/1744794/form-cms-1763-request-termination-premium-hospital-and-or-supplementary-medical-insurance.html#:~:text=Form%20CMS-1763%2C%20Request%20for%20Termination%20of%20Premium%20Hospital,A%29%20and%20supplementary%20medical%20insurance%20%28Medicare%20Part%20B%29.

[@Dzanarika1]

Charles, who do we need to talk about this automatic enrollment without anyone's approval. Is it Medicare or Social Security? My mom is going through the same issue, since when people just get enrolled without ever approving it!?

[@barryenlow7810]

I turn 65 in Oct. I had high income in the years 2019 and 2020. Can I sign up for Part A and wait 2 years to sigh up for Part B using my my much lower retirement income as the bases for the Part B premium?

[@tellittomeslow]

Yes, contact SS

[@michael.c.fischbach]

Hey Barry. Solution for IRMAA reconsideration kzbin.info/www/bejne/pnmkhZRuealrfas

[@juliapochinski2911]

Rather talk to my doctor

[@joanwarburton]

Where do you sign up for Part B?

[@stanbrouard7729]

Call Social Security 800-772-1213 to apply or go to a local SS office.

[@larikakraynew7092]

@@stanbrouard7729 I need to renew Medicare card. What I suppose to do?

[@scott7008]

HEALTH CARE : Europe vs America WHATS IN IT FOR THE GOVERNMENTs and THE PATIENTS and why EUROPE WINS European system costs 11% of GDP against 19% in the USA EU HEALTH CARE IS ALL INCLUDED THE USA NOT & WHY SO COMPLICATED??? USA life expectancy is 42th in the world on the world ratings. WHATS IN IT FOR THE EU PATIENT? If you pay taxes, as an individual, and contribute to the central government “POT” (the community POT of money). You are covered for all treatment, hospital costs, surgery, drugs, implants, chemo, post op therapies, cost of prescribed drugs, specialist and normal GP doctors bills, specialist bills etc etc. (There are some small exceptions.) You dont have to look at the small print of coverage. Its all included, pocket your credit card.. you dont need it. You dont have to pay in advance NO Paperwork The system is rated as better than the American system as nobody is excluded and the system covers 99% of all patient needs. THE EUROPEAN SYSTEM: HOW IT WORKS: All european health systems are government run and are simple systems . It is a central, run by the govenment covering all healthcare needs for the population and is non profit , universal, and also internationally recognised between all EU countries. The EU underlying system is through fiscal residency of a person, (ie you pay into the employment tax system of the country you live and into health system, if you are registered or unemployed you are covered) Simply put, each person pays into the THE GOVENMENT POT as a % of individual pay packet contributions where you are employed Importantly even if you are unemployed, but registered, you control illegal immigration. Illegals get no benefits, unless humanitarian emergency. Importantly you are still covered. you as a patient get equal rights and coverage across Europe. The EU system is state run, and covers everyone, from birth to death and costs half of the USA system. Therefore in the USA a % of the health cost is based on profit to be paid out in dividends. Additionallly not all people in the USA are covered, (approximately 15%) Its a Bum deal for Americans. It costs 8-9% of GDP more than Europe HOW IT IS MANAGED: In America USA, the health system is profit run for the most part and privately handled. Patient care is secondary to profit for 50% of coverage. The European state (country) is the employer of all health staff, doctors, nurses, etc. Central government then covers the hospitals costs through a system which keeps the hospitals covered for the expenses of each patient. If we compare the EU to the USA structure in terms of cost to GDP, Europe average 11% of GDP to the USA 20% of GDP, (2019) with the EU at 99% coverage and with improved life expectancy rate, compared to the USA. Central Government in each country collects the money through the taxes you pay as a citizen, and redistributes it (generally) to regions ,hospitals, and doctors etc which then distributes the funds to the health system used by the patient. The Government also allows the private sector to operate under the public system, to build hospitals, run them privately. Each country allows this in different rules, like Germany/UK/France etc. They are then licence them to operate by the government. But importantly, the patient who pays to the state contributions through his salary, has equal rights to access all hospitals. 10-15 % of the EU health system is private If you wish to pay an additional supplement to the state system, you are allowed to do this into to the private scheme on top of your mandatory state payments so you get private health care coverage. But you cannot opt out of the central system or add to it. Most of people dont have the means or desire to pay private insurance policies. So the state system is better for them. WHATS THE BENEFIT Basically the EU system covers 99% of people and costs the half of the USA system. In addition to this, with the EU system, if you pay contributions to the health system in the UK or France, you can have full medical care in other countries , Germany, Italy, Hungary or any other of the 27 states etc. If you lose your job, you will still be covered. you just pay less to the system as unemployment reimbusement to you is less, so you pay less, but the more you earn at work, the more you contribute to the central system. Its based on % of earnings. These European systems are based on the old and original UK system, The National Health Service, abbreviated to NHS, was launched by the then Minister of Health in Attlee's post-war government, Aneurin Bevan, at the Park Hospital in Manchester. Aneurin Bevan, Minister of Health, on the first day of the National Health Service, 5 July 1948 at Park Hospital, Davyhulme, near Manchester. THE REAL ISSUE 1. EU Health is non political, non profit, more efficient and cheaper that the USA system, 2. BETTER in many ways, as the patient is first, and health has no “profit COST”. 3. It reduces the cost to the Government. (11% against the USA 20% per year GDP) 4. Its not fragmented. Its coverage is national, and for all. 5. If you are REGISTERED as a TAX payer, you have no problems. 6. If you are clandestine, then you get some emergency humanitarian services only. Thus the authorities know who you are and send you home after. Thanks for the comments!!!!

[@kathleenelaine7039]

where is that site to sign up for Part B? The medicare people say go to Social Security site. The Social Security site says go to medicare site.

[@rafaelaolivo861]

Alo rojos le va may porque van con muchas a Hambre de ganar mientras k los azules van con muchas paciencia

[@michael.c.fischbach]

Red pill lol

[@mariewilliams5148]

Due to late payments my part B was dropped. Now I can get it back but I can't find out how. I still have Medicare part A. Suggestions please.

[@ericlamchick6791]

Unfortunately you will need to either call or visit social security. facebook.com/medicarespecialistpro

[@evettastaples5784]

Call and ask for reinstatement, but you must have a good reason.

[@Now_lets_get_this_straight]

Evetta Staples, If they ask for a good reason, I’m sure its just for them to get a good laugh. I’m sure you mean whether they have to pay a lifetime penalty, but I’m sure they can get it back.

[@BynkyBoo]

0129145 Yes part B can be reinstated but with a lifetime penalty.

[@katharinepeele2096]

If I am retiring 1 month after I turn 65, Can I sign up for part A and B and delay part B until I retire?

[@katebutler7872]

Yes

[@stanbrouard7729]

Yes

[@Now_lets_get_this_straight]

If your not working for the government, you have two choices from what I understand. 1) if you have credible coverage thru your employer that has over 20 employees, you can delay signing up for Part B, but sign up for Part A. Your eligible for special enrollment when you retire. If your working and your employer doesn’t have 20 employees and does not have credible insurance, then you would want to sign up for Part A & B at 65. If you don’t at that time, once enrollment period has ended then you have to wait for enrollment period to come around again. By then you may have to pay a penalty for life, same as for Part D. I’m a little confused by your statement. I assume you’ll signed up for S.S. a couple of months before you turn 66 so in the meantime you will be billed for Part B since its normally taken out of your S.S. check. For Medicare however, your enrollment period when you turn 65 is 3 months before and 3 months after. So Sign up for Part A within 3 months of turning 65 and Part B within 3 months after turning 65. That way if you don’t retire a month after you turn 65 and you qualify for a special enrollment down the road, your Part A is already signed up for. The key here is do you qualify for a special enrollment later after your out of the enrollment period for turning 65. If not then sign up for both 3 month prior to turning 65. There’s no such thing as signing up for Part A or Part B and delay until a later date, or at least I never read that anywhere. I see you asked this 2 years ago and probably found your answer already, but the two other comments said yes without explaining in any detail so in case anyone is reading this in 2020, maybe this can explain it better.

[@Now_lets_get_this_straight]

Katherine, I edited the reply that I initially sent to you.

[@starkravenmad3206]

@@Now_lets_get_this_straight typical government mumbo jumbo. Who can understand this crap. If this then that or else this if not that. If not now then when. Why can’t the government do anything efficient and understandable? And people want them to administer national health care?