Your Checklist to Turning 65

Today, we’re going to talk about Medicare. If you’re reading this, you are likely either near age 65, or you’re ready to start Medicare. Regardless, I am here to simplify the process for you!

I put this checklist together because many clients have told me that it’s often a confusing and overwhelming process.

Here is my 7-step checklist for determining if Medicare is right for you and the next steps to take.

1. The first decision you need to make- are you going to start on Medicare?
   • If the answer is yes, you’re in the right place. Read on for more tips!
   • If the answer is no, make sure you decline your Part B coverage, otherwise you will be charged monthly premiums. Once you do that, you should be good to go.
2. If you said “Yes- I’m ready for Medicare!”: here’s what you need to do next. 3 months prior to your 65th birthday you need to request Part B via ssa.gov.
   
   If you’re already drawing social security, you will automatically be enrolled in Part B and Medicare will begin on the first day of your birthday month.
3. Once Part B is requested you need to decide how you are going to cover your health coverage.
   
   As a reminder, your Medicare card will cover 80% of your health costs, so it is your job to find a way to cover the additional 20%. See my blog about Medicare for more details on this.

I know Medicare decisions are complicated and often confusing. Even after reading this checklist, I still recommend reaching out to a professional. The process is a complicated one and it is easy to find yourself overpaying or paying for something you don’t need.

Written By: Morgan Fisher

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