Does Retiree Health Coverage Let Me Delay Medicare Part B?
No. Retiree coverage does not count as active employer coverage for Medicare purposes. You should enroll in Part B when first eligible. Retiree plans are secondary to Medicare.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Will my retiree plan drop me if I don't get Part B?
- Many retiree plans require you to enroll in Medicare Part A and Part B. Check with your former employer's benefits office.
- Does retiree coverage give me a Special Enrollment Period?
- No. Retiree coverage is not based on active employment, so it does not trigger a SEP. You need to enroll in Part B during your IEP.
- Can retiree coverage cover what Medicare doesn't?
- Yes. When set up correctly, retiree coverage acts like supplemental insurance, covering deductibles, copays, and some services Medicare doesn't cover.