The Question: So, you’re still clocking in at the 9-to-5 grind, enjoying those free office donuts, and now, on top of that, Medicare is knocking on your door. You’re probably thinking, “Do I really need to enroll in Medicare while I’m still working?” Well, don’t worry—Suzie from Wenatchee Insurance has got your back, and she’s got answers that are as clear as a sunny day in North Central Washington!
1. Is Your Employer Big Enough to Be a Bouncer?
- Large Employers (20 or more employees): If your employer is big enough to need name tags at the company picnic, they probably have a health plan that stays primary while Medicare takes a back seat. You can think of Medicare Part B as that friend who always offers to pay, but you don’t really need them to—yet. Suzie suggests you might want to grab Part A (it’s free, like a leftover doughnut in the break room), but hold off on Part B if you’re happy with your employer’s coverage.
- Small Employers (fewer than 20 employees): If your employer is more like a cozy family reunion where everyone knows your middle name, then Medicare will want to be your primary insurance. Suzie says this is the time to roll out the red carpet for Medicare Part A and B, or you might find yourself stuck with some unexpected bills—like when you forget it’s your turn to bring snacks to the staff meeting.
2. Are You Playing HSA Roulette?
- HSAs and Medicare: A Tricky Tango: If you’re still playing the HSA game, you’ve got to be careful. Suzie warns that enrolling in Medicare will throw your HSA contributions out the window faster than your New Year’s resolutions. If you’re not ready to give up on that sweet, sweet HSA money, you might want to keep Medicare at bay for a little while longer.
3. Dodge the Medicare Penalty Like a Pro
- Suzie’s Tip: If you think you’re too cool for Medicare Part B, think again! Suzie’s seen too many folks who thought they could outsmart the system, only to end up paying a penalty that follows them like a persistent telemarketer. So unless you’re into paying more for less, make sure you don’t miss that Special Enrollment Period (SEP).
4. Special Enrollment Period: Your Get-Out-of-Jail-Free Card
- Still working and covered by your employer? Great news! Suzie says you’ve got a Special Enrollment Period to sign up for Medicare Part B whenever you’re ready—or within eight months after you finally decide to trade your desk job for a hammock. No penalty, no problem. It’s like finding out you don’t have to attend the annual budget meeting after all!
5. What About Part D?
- Is Your Prescription Coverage Up to Snuff? If your employer’s prescription plan is as strong as the coffee in the break room, you can skip Part D for now. But if your plan’s looking a little weak, like the decaf everyone avoids, Suzie suggests enrolling in Part D to avoid any late penalties. Nobody likes paying extra, especially when that money could be spent on something important—like more office donuts.
In Summary: If you’re still working, it’s not a one-size-fits-all when it comes to Medicare. Suzie from Wenatchee Insurance is here to help you navigate the maze of Medicare decisions without breaking a sweat. Whether you’re working for a big corporation or a small business, Suzie’s got the advice you need to keep your coverage (and your sanity) in check. After all, the only thing more confusing than Medicare is trying to figure out who took the last donut!
Topics: health insurance, Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Home Insurance, Car Insurance, Business Insurance, Suzie, Chelan County, Okanogan, Grant County, Douglas County, 509, Leavenworth, Quincy, Cashmere, Entiat,
