Medicare Checklist
What to do to get prepared for Medicare
Medicare can be complex, but our handy checklist has everything you need to get ready to enroll.
6 Months Before Turning 65:
- Explore the ABCD’s of Medicare. Start with an overview
- Does your work history (or current/former spouse’s) qualify you for coverage? Find out
- Learn how other coverage works with Medicare. Check eligibility
- Make sense of the costs of Medicare. Start with an overview
- Understand your enrollment options. Start with an overview
- Plan to enroll on time to avoid penalties and delays in coverage, depending on when is best for you.
- If you plan to enroll in your Initial Enrollment Period, set a reminder for yourself for 3 months before your 65th birthday.
4 Months Before Turning 65:
- Compare plans for coverage packages
- Calculate costs per month/year for:
- Premiums
- Deductibles
- Copays & coinsurance
3 Months Before Your 65th Birthday:
- Enroll in Part A during your Initial Enrollment Period. You should also enroll in Part B unless you are eligible for a Special Enrollment Period.
- Confirm receipt of Medicare card(s).
- Talk to a benefits advisor to get detailed information about plans. See if you qualify.
- Make sure to ask these important questions:
- Will I have to choose hospital and healthcare providers from a network?
- Will my doctors accept the coverage? If not, are there doctors near me who will?
- Will I need referrals to visit specialists?
- Will the plan cover me if I get sick while traveling in another state?
- What will my prescription drugs cost?
- Are my drugs on the plan’s drug list (or formulary)?
- Does the plan include the pharmacies I currently use?
- Can I get my prescriptions through the mail?
- Does the plan have a good quality rating?
- Make your decision.
~National Council on Aging
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