If you forgot to enroll at 65 the next step is to check if you had creditable job coverage. If you did you can use a Special Enrollment Period to sign up. If you did not you will use the General Enrollment Period and may pay a penalty. We Can Help You offers free education and one to one guidance. Our Agent Finder connects you with a local licensed agent. They can help you enroll and avoid costly mistakes.
What counts as creditable employer coverage if you work past 65
Creditable coverage means real job-based insurance for active workers. It can be your plan or your spouse’s plan. The plan must be from an employer, not a retiree plan. COBRA does not count for Part B. Union plans for active work can count. Keep proof like ID cards and letters. Our Agent Finder can help you check your plan and save your paperwork.
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Creditable means job-based and active work
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Retiree and COBRA plans do not count for Part B
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Keep proof of coverage for your records
How the eight-month Special Enrollment Period works after job-based coverage ends
When active job coverage ends, you get eight months to sign up for Part B. The clock starts the month after your job or coverage ends. You do not have to wait for the fall. You can enroll right away. If you miss the eight months, you may pay a penalty. Drug plans have shorter timing, so do not wait. Our team and Agent Finder can help you choose Part B, Part D, and a Medigap or Advantage plan.
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Eight months for Part B after job or coverage ends
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Part D needs faster action to avoid a penalty
What is the Medicare General Enrollment Period and who should use it
The General Enrollment Period runs each year from January one to March thirty one. Use it if you missed your first chance and you did not have creditable coverage. You can apply during this window. Your coverage will start soon after you enroll. You may owe a late penalty that can last a long time. An agent can check your options and ways to lower costs. We Can Help You offers free help to guide each step.
How automatic enrollment works if you are already getting Social Security before 65
If you get Social Security before 65, you are often auto-enrolled in Parts A and B. A red white and blue card comes in the mail. Read it and make sure the dates are right. If you have creditable job coverage you can delay Part B to avoid extra costs. If you are not auto enrolled you can apply online. Our Agent Finder can help you confirm your status and make the right choice.
Conclusion
Missing Medicare at 65 can feel hard but you have clear paths. Check if your past insurance is creditable. Use the eight month Special Enrollment Period when job coverage ends. Use the General Enrollment Period if you did not have creditable coverage. Ask about auto enrollment if you get Social Security. We Can Help You offers free education and a simple Agent Finder to connect you with a local licensed agent for one to one help. Get answers in plain language and enroll with confidence.
