Retiring? Here's how Medicare fits in.
Retirement is one of the most common moments people start paying attention to Medicare. A little planning ahead of your retirement date goes a long way.
Start about six months before retiring
Give yourself time to compare coverage options and avoid gaps. If you're already 65, your Medicare eligibility and your retirement date may not line up , that's normal.
Losing employer coverage triggers a Special Enrollment Period for Parts B and D.
You'll typically need coverage from the Marketplace, COBRA, or a spouse's plan until 65.
Plan for Part D or a Medicare Advantage plan that includes drug coverage.
Consider a Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage plan to manage out-of-pocket costs.
What to have ready
Your Medicare card (or Medicare number), a list of your doctors and prescriptions, and your planned retirement date. A licensed agent can walk you through the rest.
Prefer to talk it through? Talk to a licensed agent.