What is Medicare Advantage?
Key Points
You sign up for Medicare Part A and Part B through Social Security, while other parts and plans are purchased through private insurance carriers.
If you have other creditable coverage, such as large employer insurance, you may be able to delay Medicare past 65 without penalty.
Most people enroll in Medicare during their 7-month Initial Enrollment period, which takes place around their 65th birthday.
New to Medicare as Your Primary Insurance
Leaving employer coverage to transition to Medicare as your primary insurance can be overwhelming because it’s all new to you. Never fear, though; it’s a painless process when you know the proper steps. You can find most of the information you need about Medicare planning right here on this website.
First, you need to know that the only parts of Medicare you will enroll in via the Social Security office are your Original Medicare Parts A & B. All other Parts and supplemental coverage enrollments are done outside of that, through an insurance agent or agency.
Also, if you are already taking Social Security, the government will auto-enroll in both parts of Medicare. Otherwise, you must enroll yourself.