Turning 65? Here's Your Medicare Checklist to Stay Covered & Save Money

Turning 65 is a major milestone — and for most people, it also means it’s time to enroll in Medicare. But the process can be confusing, especially if you're not sure when to sign up, what's covered, or how to avoid penalties. Whether you're planning to retire soon or continue working, here’s your step-by-step Medicare checklist to help you stay covered and in control.

 1. Know Your Enrollment Window

You have a 7-month Initial Enrollment Period (IEP):

•  Starts: 3 months before your 65th birthday
• Includes: Your birthday month
• Ends: 3 months after you turn 65

 Enroll early to avoid coverage gaps or late penalties — especially for Part B and Part D.

 2. Decide If You Need to Enroll in Medicare

Ask yourself:

Are you already getting Social Security or Railroad Retirementbenefits?

•  You’ll be automatically enrolled in Parts A & B
•  Medicare card will arrive in the mail around 2–3 months before your birthday

Are you still working and have employer insurance?

• You may delay Part B and/or Part D to avoid paying for duplicate coverage
• Employer coverage must be creditable to avoid penalties — we can help you confirm this

 3. Understand What Each Part Covers

Medicare PartWhat It Covers

Part A	Hospital stays, skilled nursing, hospice
Part B	Doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services
Part C (Medicare Advantage)	All-in-one plans that replace A & B and may include dental, vision, hearing, and drug coverage
Part D	Prescription drug coverage (standalone or included in MAPD plans)

 Don't forget to compare Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans if you want to stick with Original Medicare and reduce out-of-pocket costs.

 4. Estimate Your Costs

Even though Medicare Part A is usually premium-free, you may still need to budget for:

• Part B premium (standard is $185/month in 2025)
• Part D premiums
• Medigap or Medicare Advantage plan premiums
• Copays, coinsurance, and deductibles

We help you run the numbers to fit your budget and health needs.

 5. Compare Plans in Your Area

Every Medicare plan is ZIP code-specific — and benefits can vary greatly by region and carrier. We’ll help you:

• Compare Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap
• Check if your doctors and prescriptions are covered
• Look for extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, OTC, and gym memberships

 6. Enroll in the Right Plan at the Right Time

You can enroll:

• Online at Medicare.gov
• By calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213
• Or let Peace & Grace Insurance Services help you do it the easy way

 We’ll make sure you enroll in the right parts, avoid penalties, and get the best plan for your situation.

 7. Keep Records and Watch for Your Medicare Card

Once you apply:

• Track your application status
• Make sure your Medicare card arrives before your coverage begins
• Mark your calendar for future enrollment periods (like AEP every fall)

 FAQs: Medicare When Turning 65

1. Do I have to enroll in Medicare if I’m still working?

Not always — but your group coverage must meet creditable coverage standards. We’ll help you verify this.

2. Will I be penalized if I wait to enroll?

 Yes — for Part B and Part D, unless you have qualifying coverage  Penalties are for life, so don't delay unless you're 100% sure you're exempt

3. Can I get help paying for Medicare?

Yes — you may qualify for Medi-Cal, Extra Help, or Medicare Savings Programs if your income is limited

 Ready to Make Medicare Simple?

At Peace & Grace Insurance Services, we help people turning 65 every day:

• Avoid penalties
• Find the best coverage for their needs
• Keep their doctors
• Get the most from their benefits — all at no cost to you

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