To Do list:
- One year before retirement, learn about Medicare basics, including when to enroll.
- If you are contributing to a Health Savings Account (HSA), you must stop contributions 6 months before enrolling in any part of Medicare, including Parts A or B.
- Six months before retirement learn about supplemental policies such as JHU retiree medical plans, Advantage plans, or Medigap and Part D policies.
- Three months before you want Medicare coverage to begin, enroll through social security.
- If applicable, submit the CMS L-564 form to the Benefits Service Center for completion.
- Once enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B, enroll in a supplemental and prescription plan. This might be the JHU retiree medical or a Medigap policy, Part D or an Advantage Plan.
NOTE: When you retire from JHU and are age 65+, you MUST enroll in Medicare Parts A and B. This is true even if you are electing the JHU retiree medical benefit.
Learn
- Visit ALEX Medicare for step-by-step guidance on eligibility, coverage, options, and costs.
- Read the “Medicare & You” handbook.
- Browse the official Medicare website.
- Attend a workshop hosted by your local SHIP office (State Health Insurance Assistance Program).
- Watch a Pre-Retirement Program video covering this topic.
Enrollment – through Social Security
- Social Security will mail your Medicare enrollment form about 3 months before your 65th birthday if you are collecting your social security benefit.
- Enroll in Medicare only.
- Enroll in Part B only.