Roadmap to Medicare
Over Age 65, Retiree or Severance Benefits
Your Roadmap is based on…
- You are over Age 65 and did not enroll in Medicare A (and/or) B at age 65
- The Primary Insured is not (or will not be) actively working at the employer providing your benefits
- You are (or will be) covered under the group health Retiree plan or Severance Benefits
Recommendation Summary:
- Retiree Coverage/Severance benefits are not considered creditable coverage (group coverage based on current active employment).
- In order to avoid a late enrollment penalty and have full coverage, we recommend that you enroll in both Part A and Part B as soon as possible.
- Schedule your Roadmap to Medicare appointment with an HTA Medicare Advisor if you have not done so already.
- Select the enrollment instructions that best applies:
What is my deadline to enroll?
You have a Special Enrollment Period and can enroll anytime after age 65, up to 8 months after your group coverage or the employment that it is based on ends (whichever comes first).
Do I need Medicare to have full coverage?
Yes/Likely. Medicare “Who Pays First” Law states since Retiree plans are not based upon active employment, Medicare becomes the primary insurance once you turn 65.
Even if your Retiree plan says that they will remain the primary insurance and Medicare is not necessary, it may still be worth enrolling in Medicare within enrollment period and penalty timelines so you do not get temporarily locked out or get a penalty if you decide to enroll in Medicare later.
Will I receive a penalty if I don’t enroll now?
Yes. You will receive a late enrollment penalty because your Retiree coverage is not considered creditable coverage to Medicare. Creditable coverage is defined as group coverage based on current active employment. Retiree plans are not based on active employment.
Secondary Insurance Options
Since your Retiree benefits are likely considered secondary insurance to Medicare, you MUST be enrolled in Medicare A and B to have full coverage. You will have the option to keep your Retiree Plan as secondary or elect a Medicare Supplement and Medicare Prescription Drug Plan as secondary.