Planning for Medicare
You may think Medicare is a long way off, but it will be here before you know it. And it's never too early to start planning.
First steps
Medicare eligibility
- You are a U.S. citizen, and you live in the U.S.
- You have been paying into Medicare for at least 40 quarters
- You are enrolled in Social Security
- You are automatically enrolled since you have signed up for Social Security
- You are disabled and already receive Social Security
You can find out more about your Social Security benefits at medicare.gov.
Needs and priorities.
Not everyone shares the same needs. Figure out your health coverage priorities and then factor in your budget.
- Prescription drug plan
- Keeping your current doctor
- Interested in traveling more
- Have VA benefits
- Have a chronic health condition
- Enjoy Fitness and Nutrition
- Dental coverage
- Vision and Eyewear
SSA.gov
Visit the Social Security Administration site. There you can set up an account to track your benefits. If you haven't already signed up for benefits, you can get guidance on when you should sign up for Part B and Part D. Signing up for these benefits on time can help you avoid financial penalties. You can also look at this booklet published by Social Security.
Family caregivers
If you’re taking care of a family member, Medicare has policies and benefits to help you. Learn more at the Family caregiver navigator website.
Understanding Medicare enrollment dates to avoid penalties
Make a note of Medicare deadlines on your calendars. There are strict deadlines, so don't wait to the last minute. Learn about the different enrollment timelines and how they can differ based upon your unique situation.
You can enroll three months before the month in which you turn 65 years of age, your 65th birthday month and three months after the month of your birthday.
Except under special circumstances, you may only choose or change your Medicare Advantage plan or Part D plan each fall, during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period.
October 1
You may begin receiving plan information.
October 15
Enrollment period begins.
December 7
Enrollment period ends.
January 1
The choices you make during the Annual Enrollment Period take effect January 1 of the upcoming year.
You may join a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan at other times of the year, under certain circumstances, such as:
This is not a comprehensive list of the special circumstances in which you can enroll.
During this time, you can change your Medicare Advantage plan or switch to Original Medicare.
Who is eligible for OEP?
- Individuals with a current Medicare Advantage health insurance plan from any carrier
- Current Blue Cross of Idaho plan members who want to change their plan selection
What are the rules on switching plans during OEP?
- You can switch back to Original Medicare if you currently have a MA plan
- You cannot switch to a MA plan if on Original Medicare
- You cannot switch to a PDP if on Original Medicare
- You can only switch one time during OEP
- You cannot switch to a Medicare Advantage plan if you currently have a Medicare Supplement plan.
More resources to guide you
Need help?
You can also meet with a local agent near you. It's a great way of getting unbiased advice! To learn more about working with an agent, watch this short video:Powered by Blue Cross of Idaho Care Plus, Inc.
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