Social Security Started, 20+ Employer Coverage: Part B Timing
Receiving Social Security does not change the employer-size rule. With active coverage from an employer with 20 or more employees, you can delay Part B without a penalty even after Social Security starts. When employment or employer coverage ends, you have an 8-month Special Enrollment Period. However, because Medicare enrollment is automatic at 65 for Social Security recipients, you must actively decline Part B — doing nothing means you are enrolled and paying the premium.
Frequently Asked Questions
- If I am already receiving Social Security, does Part B automatically start at 65?
- Yes — Medicare Part A and Part B both start automatically at 65 if you are already on Social Security. You must actively decline Part B if you do not want it. If you have qualifying active-employer coverage from an employer with 20 or more employees, you may decline Part B and use the 8-month SEP when employment ends.
- Can I decline Medicare Part B at auto-enrollment and use the SEP later?
- Yes, if you have qualifying active-employer group health coverage from an employer with 20 or more employees. When employment ends, the 8-month SEP allows you to enroll in Part B without a penalty. Contact Social Security before your 65th birthday to arrange the Part B decline.
- What happens if I accidentally accepted both Part A and Part B?
- You can drop Part B after auto-enrollment by contacting Social Security. You generally have a limited window to make changes without penalty. If you have qualifying employer coverage and want to delay Part B, act quickly to avoid paying the Part B premium unnecessarily.