Employer size matters
If you or a spouse is still working and the employer has 20 or more employees, you may be able to delay Part B and enroll later during a Special Enrollment Period. Smaller employers follow different rules. Ask the benefits office for the rule that applies to you, in writing.
Part A is often still in play
Many people take premium-free Part A at 65 even if they delay Part B. Enrolling in Part A can affect Health Savings Account contributions. Confirm with the HSA administrator and Social Security before you enroll.
Creditable drug coverage
If the employer plan’s drug coverage is creditable (as good as Medicare’s standard Part D, on average), you may delay Part D without a penalty. Ask for the annual creditable-coverage notice. Marketplace (ACA) plans are generally not a substitute after you are eligible for Medicare.
When work ends
When you retire or the employer coverage ends, you typically have a limited Special Enrollment Period to pick up Part B (and often Part D). Missing that window can mean a late-enrollment penalty. Confirm dates on Medicare.gov and with Social Security.
Common questions
- Can this website tell me to delay Part B?
- No. Employer size, creditable coverage, and Social Security rules decide that. Get it in writing from the employer and confirm with Social Security.
- What if I have a Marketplace plan?
- A Marketplace plan is generally not a substitute for Medicare after you are eligible. Missing Part B can mean a late-enrollment penalty. Confirm on Medicare.gov.
We are not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or the federal Medicare program. This page is general education. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 6 organizations which offer Medicare Advantage and Part D products in California. The number of products available to you depends on your ZIP code. For a complete list of options, visit Medicare.gov, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227), TTY 711, or California HICAP at 1-800-434-0222.