A Medicare Supplement works as a secondary insurance to you primary Medicare insurance. A Medicare Advantage Plan replaces your Medicare as a privatized primary insurance run through a Medicare approved format.
Typically, Medicare Part A is covered by SSI for you and Medicare Part A is $144.60 per month. A Medicare Part D, used to cover prescriptions, is on average $23 a month and a Medigap plan can range from $0 to on average $150 monthly.
To sign up for Medicare, please visit https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/ You can also make an appointment at a local social security office, however, if you can sign up online that will be by far the easiest way.
Typically, you should send in your Medicare and Social Security applications three months before you want them to become active. You can do this at 64.75 years old or if you are still working wait for the three months prior to retirement.
No. However, while you will be signed up for Medicare Part A automatically, Part B requires action on your part. If you choose not to sign up for Medicare’s Part B or D you will begin accruing a penalty that will be paid monthly for as long as you have Part B and D after signing up. Most private coverages will not cover individuals eligible for Medicare after 65 years of age.