How Medicare Works at a Glance

Getting Signed Up

If you’re already receiving Social Security, you’ll be automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A & B.
If you’re NOT receiving Social Security benefits, you must contact the Social Security Administration to enroll approximately three months before your 65th birthday. (Unless you have creditable group coverage with your employer)

To Enroll in Medicare You Can

• CALL Social Security at (800)-772-1213.
• GO ONLINE to ssa.gov (You’ll either need to login or create an account)

Medicare Part A

• Free” if you’ve worked and paid your Medicare taxes for at least 10 years.
• Goes into effect DAY 1 of your 65th birthday month, unless you we’re born on the 1st.
• Covers inpatient care only- in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities and hospice.
• Requires that you pay a deductible of $1,632. If your hospital stay is longer than 60 days, you’re then charged a per day amount.
• Average monthly premium of $174.70, determined by your income.

Medicare Part B

• Covers all Medicare covered services except for inpatient care and drugs- including outpatient care, medical equipment, preventative services, and immunizations.
• Has a $240 deductible, afterwards 80% is covered and you’re responsible for the remaining 20%.
• There is NO Cap or out-of-pocket maximum limit on the 20%.

Medicare Part C

• Otherwise known as Medicare Advantage Plans (HMO’s, PPO’s, PFFS’s, Etc.).
• Combines Medicare Parts A, B and usually D all into one plan.
• Involves a network of doctors with referrals and authorizations required on some plans.
• Most plans include a $0 monthly premium, so you pay no more than your $174.70/monthly for Medicare Part B.
• Pay-as-you go system with copays and co-insurance. Plan benefits and coverage can change from year to year.

Medicare Part D

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