Maximize Your Medicare

Part A (Hospital Insurance)

Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care.

Part B (Medical Insurance)

Covers certain doctors' services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services.

Part C (Medicare Advantage)

An alternative to Original Medicare offered by private companies. Combines Parts A, B, and usually D.

Part D (Prescription Drugs)

Helps cover prescription drug costs. Run by Medicare-approved private insurance companies.

Medicare Supplements (Medigap)

Policies sold by private companies that help pay costs not covered by Original Medicare.

Age-Based Eligibility

U.S. citizens and permanent residents who are 65 years or older.

Disability-Based Eligibility

• Received Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for 24 months
  

• Have Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
  

• Have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)
  

Work Credits

Most people need 40 work credits (about 10 years of work) to qualify for premium-free Part A.

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

The 7-month period around your 65th birthday

• 3 months before your 65th birthday
  

• The month of your 65th birthday
  

• 3 months after your 65th birthday
  

Annual Enrollment Period

October 15 - December 7 each year

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment

January 1 - March 31 each year

Special Enrollment Periods

Based on certain life events