A plain-language guide to how Medicare works, its four parts, eligibility rules, and how to enroll so you're ready as you approach 65.
Medicare is a federally run program that delivers health coverage to people age 65 and older, as well as to certain individuals under 65 who have qualifying disabilities. The system can feel complicated, yet our team has guided a great many seniors toward the Medicare plan that fits both their needs and their budget. We'll break Medicare down as simply as possible so you know exactly what to anticipate in the months around your 65th birthday.
Created in 1965, Medicare introduced a fresh approach to giving at-risk Americans access to affordable health insurance. Specifically, Medicare serves older adults, whereas Medicaid serves people living in poverty. The program stayed largely the same until 2006, when the addition of the prescription drug benefit marked a major turning point.
Each year the government has invested heavily in health care. That spending has improved the quality of care, but ongoing review is necessary to ensure people can continue to keep their coverage.
These days, Medicare is run by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), a division of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Medicare is made up of four parts:
Together, Parts A and B are referred to as Original Medicare.
Medicare also connects to additional plans, such as Medigap and Medicare Advantage. If you'd like help sorting through your choices or you're looking for a lower-cost policy, get in touch with Quottes.
Original Medicare typically pays for 80% of your medical expenses, leaving you responsible for the remaining 20%. This is exactly where a supplemental insurance plan proves useful. For anyone who sees the doctor frequently, that 20% share can add up to significant out-of-pocket spending.
Several different requirements can make a person eligible for some type of Medicare. A few of these, including certain disabilities, can provide automatic eligibility and approval. Anyone who qualifies automatically may choose to begin receiving Medicare the moment their other benefits kick in. Additional eligibility rules extend to people over the age of 65 who might not be collecting Social Security.
Signing up for Medicare can differ slightly from one person to the next, based on your age and the plan you choose. If you weren't enrolled automatically in Parts A and B, you'll have to sign up yourself. You can do that in one of three ways:
It's best to enroll as soon as you become eligible so you can avoid late penalties. Your Initial Enrollment Period—the point when you first qualify for Medicare—starts three months ahead of your 65th birthday and closes three months after it.
As noted, Medicare is administered by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. However, you actually apply for Original Medicare through Social Security.
If Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplements, or prescription drug plans interest you, you can sign up through a broker like Quottes or reach out to the carrier directly.
Quottes is here to deliver outstanding customer service and help our clients make well-informed decisions about their health insurance coverage.
Our agents represent the top-rated insurance companies in your area and lay out your options so you can feel confident in your choices. Medicare can seem intimidating, but we're ready whenever you need us. Call us at 941-894-6460 to get started.
Turning 65 or new to Medicare can feel overwhelming. We have helped thousands of retirees navigate this journey with confidence — and we would love to help you too. Share a few details and a licensed advisor will reach out with a free, no-obligation quote.
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