Medicare Basics
What Medicare covers, who qualifies, and when to sign up.
The four parts of Medicare
| Part | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Part A | Hospital insurance: inpatient stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice and some home health care. |
| Part B | Medical insurance: doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services and medical equipment. |
| Part C | Medicare Advantage: private plans that include Parts A and B and often Part D and extra benefits. |
| Part D | Prescription drug coverage through private plans. |
Parts A and B together are called Original Medicare. It does not cap your yearly out-of-pocket costs, which is why many people add a Supplement or choose Advantage.
Who is eligible?
You are generally eligible at 65 if you or your spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years and you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident of at least five years. People under 65 with certain disabilities or conditions may also qualify.
When to enroll
Initial Enrollment Period
A seven-month window: three months before your 65th birthday month, the month itself, and three months after.
Annual Enrollment Period
October 15 to December 7 each year. Change Medicare Advantage or Part D plans for coverage starting January 1.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment
January 1 to March 31. Advantage members can switch plans or return to Original Medicare.
Special Enrollment Periods
Life events such as moving, losing employer coverage or qualifying for Medicaid can open a window to change plans.
Next step
Every situation is different. Schedule a free review and we will map out the right timeline and plan for you.
Not sure which plan fits? Let us compare them for you.
There is no cost to talk it through. We will review your doctors, prescriptions and budget, then explain your options in plain English.