What are the parts of Medicare?

There are four parts of Medicare: Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical) are administered by the Federal Government. Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage and Part D (drug coverage) are administered by private insurance carriers. 

Do I need to enroll in Medicare A & B? 

Yes. If you are fully retiring and will no longer be eligible for your active employee plan, you will need to enroll in both Medicare A & B. This is true whether you plan to join a group retiree Medicare plan or an individual direct pay Medicare plan.

How do I enroll in Medicare A & B? 

If you are collecting Social Security, your Medicare card showing effective dates for Parts A & B should be mailed out to you automatically about three months before you turn 65. If you are not collecting Social Security, you can visit www.ssa.gov and click “Medicare” to enroll. 

I’m over the age of 65 and deferred my Medicare benefits while working, how do I enroll in Medicare now?

There are two forms that need to be completed and sent to Social Security to enroll in Medicare Part B (see links below) – You will complete the “CMS Application for Enrollment in Medicare Part B” and enter your desired effective date for Part B in the Remarks section. Your employer will complete the “Request for Employment Information” form. 

What does Medicare cost?

For most people, there is no premium for Medicare Part A; you’ve been paying into it through your working career. The standard monthly premium for Medicare Part B is $164.90 in 2023. This amount may be higher or lower, depending on your income. If you are collecting Social Security, the Part B premium will be deducted from your Social Security benefit amount. If you are not collecting, you will be billed quarterly for your Part B premium. Note: There may be an additional premium for Part C and/or Part D depending on the plan you choose. 

My spouse is not Medicare eligible yet, how can I make sure he/she doesn’t lose coverage? 

You have options for your spouse, including applying for a plan through the NY State of Health Marketplace or directly with one of our local carriers. We have no-cost assistance available to you!

What types of Medicare plans are available to me?

You may join one of the Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield group retiree plans (See “Group Medicare Options” page) or a Direct Pay Medicare Advantage or Supplement plan. If you chose to explore plans outside of the group retiree offerings, there are a wide range of options available. When you work with Walsh Duffield, we’ll help determine which plan is the best choice depending on your needs and budget.  

How much will a Walsh Duffield professional consultation cost me?

Our services are available to you at NO COST. This includes:

i. an initial phone consultation to assess your needs and timeline 

ii. plan research based on your personal medical/prescription/budget/travel needs

iii. personalized consultations at a convenient location for you or virtually

iv. Assistance with enrollment in Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement and Medicare Part D plans