Working Past 65: Do You Need Medicare Part B?

Start with current employment

Coverage through your current job or your spouse’s current job may support delaying Part B. Retiree insurance, COBRA, and individual Marketplace coverage are different. Confirm that the coverage meets the requirements for the enrollment period you expect to use.

Ask the right employer questions

• Is coverage based on current employment, and whose employment is it?
• How large is the employer, and which coverage pays first?
• Does the employer plan require Medicare at 65?
• Is the prescription coverage creditable for Part D?
• When will employment and group coverage each end?
• Will COBRA or retiree coverage be offered?

Employer size and creditable coverage are different checks

Employer size helps determine which insurance pays first. Creditable prescription coverage means drug coverage expected to pay, on average, at least as much as standard Medicare drug coverage. A creditable drug notice alone does not establish that Part B can be delayed.

Include your HSA and Social Security status

Medicare enrollment affects eligibility to contribute to an HSA. Part A can be retroactive when someone enrolls after 65. Review the application date, possible retroactive months, and contributions with Social Security and your tax advisor before taking action. Tell us if Social Security has already started.

Confirm the sequence before changing coverage

Bring your employer plan information, proposed retirement date, and any Medicare notices. We identify which questions need answers from your employer or Social Security, then map enrollment and coverage dates.