Employer / COBRA / ACA → Medicare: what changes?
Each path into Medicare has its own timing rules. Get one wrong and the penalty can follow you for the rest of your life. Here's the short version.
| Your situation | The risk | What you need to know |
|---|---|---|
| Leaving employer coverage at 65+ | Special window | You usually get an 8-month Special Enrollment Period — but it starts ticking the moment coverage (or employment) ends. |
| On COBRA | High risk | COBRA does not count as active coverage for Medicare. Waiting can trigger lifetime Part B penalties. |
| On an ACA / Marketplace plan | High risk | Marketplace subsidies typically end at Medicare eligibility. Keeping ACA too long can cost you twice. |
| Skipping Part D (drug plan) | Permanent | The Part D late penalty is added to your premium for life — even if you don't take medications now. |
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