Deciding how and when to enroll in Medicare is one of the most significant decisions you will make about your healthcare as you move toward retirement. Take time to learn the facts.
Hear the experience of Everence members
Four parts of Medicare
What does Medicare cover?
Medicare coverage is divided into four parts. You can choose Medicare Parts A and B (also known as Original Medicare), offering coverage anywhere you live or travel within the U.S. Part C offers coverage within a geographic area, and emergency care in other places in the U.S. Medicare offers limited coverage outside the U.S. Part D is prescription coverage.
Part A
Covers inpatient hospital care when you are admitted overnight or for longer stays. It also covers short, post-hospital rehabilitation stays in nursing homes, and hospice care. It does not, however, pay for long-term care in a retirement or nursing home.
Part B
Covers doctor visits and outpatient care, including many preventive care services, as well as rehabilitation and therapy treatment.
Part C
Known as Medicare Advantage, Part C is private insurance that replaces Medicare Parts A and B.
Part D
The optional prescription drug coverage through a private insurance company. Learn more about Part D.
Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement
Find the right Medicare option for your life
On its own, Original Medicare covers approximately 80% of a beneficiary’s medical services costs for Medicare-approved services. There is no out-of-pocket maximum on the remaining 20%. Many enrollees are uncomfortable with this risk and choose to take an additional step beyond carrying Original Medicare.
You become eligible when you reach 65 years old. (People with certain disabilities may be eligible earlier.)
Explore the online questionnaire below from Medicare to help you confirm that you are eligible.
Do I have to sign up for Medicare and Social Security at the same time?
As you approach retirement, you might have questions about how Medicare and Social Security function or how they benefit you.
Medicare and Social Security are government programs designed as safety nets for U.S. workers, whether as an aid to retirement, disability or losing a spouse. The two often work together in offering complementary benefits.
When can I enroll in Medicare, and what are the deadlines?
You can enroll as early as three months before you turn 65. Review your Open Enrollment Period because there are deadlines and penalties that affect you.
How do I enroll in Medicare?
When you sign up for Social Security, Medicare automatically enrolls you in Part A, but you must sign up for Part B, if you want it. If you are 65 and haven't signed up for Social Security but want Medicare benefits, you must sign up for them.
Visit the enrollment section of Medicare.gov to sign up.
What are the costs of Medicare, and can I afford them?
Medicare Part A is free for most people. You pay for Part B, if you choose it. Learn more about how much you will pay for the Part B premium. You pay for Part D with a monthly premium and your plan may include out-of-pocket expenses such as copayments, coinsurance and annual deductibles.
How can I cut through the Medicare clutter during Open Enrollment this fall?
Every fall, the Medicare Open Enrollment Period presents multiple–and often confusing–choices. To cut through the clutter, take time to understand your options, review your current coverage, and compare available plans. This helps you make informed decisions and find the best plan for your needs.
What dental and vision plans are available for members age 60+?
Everence Association offers comprehensive dental and vision insurance for members age 60 and older. These plans support overall well-being, since healthy eyes and teeth are closely connected to good health.
EVENTS
Attend a Medicare workshop
Join one of our educational Medicare events, offered throughout the year in select locations or online. Whether you're still working or preparing to retire, our workshops provide essential insights into your Medicare options and the steps for shifting from your current health coverage.
Not sure which Medicare plan is right for you? While some options may seem perfect at 65, they can surprise you with high out-of-pocket costs later. Let us guide you in choosing a plan that meets your unique needs now and as you age, ensuring you’re covered at 65, 75, and beyond.
Spread the word: Did you know, as a Christian organization, Everence is dedicated to helping you live out your values through your financial decisions, including healthcare? Please invite friends and family who could benefit from our values-driven Medicare education.
