Medicare for Veterans: Should I Keep My VA Benefits and Enroll in Medicare?

If you’re a veteran and eligible for VA healthcare, you might be wondering: Do I really need to sign up for Medicare, too? It’s a common question — and the short answer is:  Yes, it’s usually a smart move to enroll in Medicare even if you have VA coverage. Here’s why having both VA and Medicare gives you more freedom, flexibility, and protection — and how to make the right decision.

 What Is VA Health Care?

VA health care is a separate federal program from Medicare. It gives eligible veterans access to:

• VA hospitals and clinics
• Prescription drug coverage through VA pharmacies
• Certain preventive and specialty care

 Your access depends on your priority group and service-connected conditions — not all services are covered for all veterans.

 What Medicare Covers That the VA Doesn’t

MedicareVA Health Benefits

See any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare	Must use VA-approved facilities
Covered nationwide	Limited to VA system locations
Works even if you move or travel	Geographic restrictions apply
Can add Part D or MAPD for extra benefits	No dental, vision, or hearing for most vets

 If you ever need care outside the VA, Medicare becomes critical.

 Why Veterans Should Consider Enrolling in Medicare

1. More Freedom to Choose Providers

If you ever want to see a civilian specialist, get care at a private hospital, or move to a new area — Medicare gives you that option.

2. Emergency Coverage Outside the VA

VA care is not guaranteed in emergencies, especially if you’re not near a VA hospital.  Medicare covers emergency care at any hospital that accepts it.

3. Avoiding Late Enrollment Penalties

If you delay Medicare Part B and later want it, you’ll pay a lifetime penalty:

• 10% per 12-month delay (for Part B)
• 1% per month penalty (for Part D, if you don't have other creditable drug coverage)

4. Combining VA & Medicare = Broader Coverage

You can use VA for routine or low-cost care and Medicare for outside referrals, emergencies, or non-VA specialists.

 When VA Coverage Alone May Fall Short

• You don’t live near a full-service VA facility
• You want a non-VA doctor or surgeon
• You’re traveling out of state
• You lose VA eligibility (for income or budget reasons)
• You need dental, vision, or hearing care not offered by the VA

 FAQs: Medicare & Veterans

1. If I have VA health care, do I have to enroll in Medicare?

Not legally — but if you ever need non-VA care, you’ll be glad you did. Plus, enrolling on time helps avoid lifelong penalties.

2. Can I use both VA and Medicare?

Yes — but you can’t use both at the same time. You must choose which system to use for each service.

3. Does VA drug coverage count as creditable coverage for Part D?

 Yes — but you must stay enrolled in VA to avoid the Part D penalty. If you drop VA, enroll in a Part D or MAPD plan within 63 days to avoid penalties.

4. Can I get extra benefits with a Medicare Advantage plan?

 Yes — many veterans choose a $0 premium MAPD plan just to get:

• Dental, vision, hearing
• OTC cards
• Gym memberships
• Transportation and more

 Need Help Choosing the Right Coverage as a Veteran?

At Peace & Grace Insurance Services, we help veterans:

• Understand how VA and Medicare work together
• Avoid costly penalties
• Access more benefits through MAPD plans
• Compare options without affecting VA eligibility

 Call/Text: 209-812-4026  Email: CSinsurepng@icloud.com  Proudly serving all counties in California