Question 1

When should I enroll in Medicare?

Accepted Answer

Most people enroll during their Initial Enrollment Period — the 7-month window starting 3 months before you turn 65. If you're still working and covered by a creditable employer plan, you may be able to delay Part B without penalty. Enrolling during your eligible enrollment period may help avoid late enrollment penalties, depending on your situation.

Question 2

Can I keep my doctor?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the coverage you choose. With Original Medicare (plus a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy), you can see any provider in the country who accepts Medicare. With a Medicare Advantage plan, you'll typically need to use the plan's network. Scott can help you review whether your preferred doctors participate in the networks of available Medicare plan options.

Question 3

What is the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement (Medigap)?

Accepted Answer

Medicare Advantage is an alternative way to receive your Medicare Part A and Part B benefits through a Medicare-approved private insurance company. These plans are typically network-based and may offer additional benefits, such as dental or vision, and usually include an out-of-pocket maximum. Medicare Supplement (Medigap) supplements Original Medicare by paying some of the deductibles and coinsurance Original Medicare leaves behind, with no network and no referrals — but a higher monthly premium and a separate Part D plan.

Question 4

Do I need Part D?

Accepted Answer

Part D may still be worth considering even if you don't currently take prescription medications. If you go without creditable prescription drug coverage for 63 or more days after you're eligible, you may owe a permanent late enrollment penalty when you enroll later. Many Medicare Advantage plans include Part D prescription drug coverage; Original Medicare and Medicare Supplement (Medigap) require a separate Part D plan.

Question 5

What happens if I delay enrollment?

Accepted Answer

If you delay Part B without other creditable coverage, you may owe a 10% penalty on your Part B premium for every full 12-month period you delayed — and it lasts as long as you have Part B. Part D has its own late enrollment penalty. Scott can help explain Medicare enrollment rules and discuss whether you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) or another enrollment exception.

Question 6

Can I change plans later?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every year, October 15 – December 7 is the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), when you can switch Medicare Advantage or Part D plans. There's also a Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31) and Special Enrollment Periods triggered by certain life events.

Question 7

How much does Medicare cost?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the parts and plans you choose. Most people pay no premium for Part A. Part B costs $202.90/month for most people in 2026, more for higher earners (IRMAA). Some Medicare Advantage plans have a $0 monthly plan premium, but beneficiaries generally continue paying the Medicare Part B premium unless otherwise covered. Premiums, deductibles, copayments, and other costs vary by plan. Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans typically run anywhere from roughly $100 to over $300 per month depending on plan letter, age, and ZIP code. Part D plans add a separate monthly premium.

Question 8

Should I attend a Medicare seminar?

Accepted Answer

Attending a Medicare educational seminar may be helpful for people who want to learn more about Medicare. Scott's free educational dinner seminars are designed to help you understand how Medicare works, with no pressure and no obligation to enroll in any plan. They're a relaxed way to get your questions answered while enjoying a complimentary meal.

Question 9

Am I eligible for Medicare before 65?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in specific cases. You become eligible after 24 months of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, or immediately if you're diagnosed with ALS or End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD).

Question 10

Do dental, vision, and hearing benefits come with Medicare?

Accepted Answer

Original Medicare (Parts A and B) generally does not cover routine dental, vision, or hearing care. Many Medicare Advantage plans include these as extra benefits, and standalone dental/vision plans are also available. Benefits vary by plan and are not included under all Medicare coverage options.

Question 11

Do I have to re-enroll in Medicare every year?

Accepted Answer

No. Once you're enrolled, your Medicare coverage generally continues automatically. However, it's a good idea to review your Medicare Advantage or Part D plan during the Annual Enrollment Period because premiums, provider networks, and prescription drug formularies may change each year.

Question 12

What are the most common Medicare mistakes to avoid?

Accepted Answer

Common Medicare mistakes include delaying Part B without other creditable coverage, missing your Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Open Enrollment Period when guaranteed issue protections may apply, choosing a plan based only on the monthly premium instead of total costs, not checking whether your doctors and prescriptions are covered, and skipping your annual Medicare plan review.

Question 13

Do I need Medicare if I'm still working?

Accepted Answer

If you're still working, whether you should enroll in Medicare depends on the size of your employer and the health coverage you have. Some people may be able to delay certain parts of Medicare without a late enrollment penalty if they have creditable employer coverage. Scott can help you understand your options based on your situation.

Question 14

Can I have Medicare and employer coverage at the same time?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many people have both Medicare and employer health insurance. Which plan pays first depends on factors such as the size of your employer and your employment status. Understanding how Medicare and employer coverage work together can help you avoid unexpected costs.

Question 15

What is Original Medicare?

Accepted Answer

Original Medicare is the federal health insurance program that includes Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). You can generally receive care from any provider nationwide who accepts Medicare. Original Medicare does not include most prescription drug coverage, so many people also enroll in a Medicare Part D plan and may choose a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy to help cover certain out-of-pocket costs.

Question 16

What is a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy?

Accepted Answer

A Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy, also called Medicare Supplement (Medigap), helps pay some of the out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare doesn't cover, such as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policies work only with Original Medicare and do not include prescription drug coverage.

Question 17

What is a Special Enrollment Period (SEP)?

Accepted Answer

A Special Enrollment Period (SEP) allows eligible individuals to enroll in or make changes to their Medicare coverage outside of the standard enrollment periods after certain qualifying life events. Examples may include losing employer health coverage, moving outside your plan's service area, or qualifying for certain assistance programs. Eligibility depends on your individual circumstances.

Question 18

How do I enroll in Medicare?

Accepted Answer

Many people are automatically enrolled in Medicare when they begin receiving Social Security benefits. If you're not automatically enrolled, you can sign up through the Social Security Administration during your eligible enrollment period. Scott can help you understand your Medicare options before you enroll. Enrollment is completed through the Social Security Administration or Medicare, depending on your situation.

Medicare Questions, Answered

Educational Disclaimer

Still have Medicare questions? Scott Black provides personalized Medicare education to help you better understand your options and enrollment choices.