4-6 months before you retire:
• Confirm your eligibility for Medicare benefits (Contact Social Security or Railroad
Benefits)
• Contact your HR department or current insurer to see what happens when you become
Medicare-eligible
• Learn about Medicare, so you understand parts A, B, C (Advantage), D, and Medigap
• Attend a Medicare Class!
• Compare costs of each part (premiums, deductibles, copays and coinsurance)
• Review enrollment dates
• Enroll on time to avoid penalties and delays in coverage
• Set a reminder on your calendar to enroll!
1-3 Months before:
• Enroll in Part A
• Enroll in Part B, if you are continuing to work, it may not be your best option
to enroll at this time
• Confirm receipt of Medicare card.
• Talk to a SHICK Counselor to get detailed information about plans.
• Make your decision between part C (Advantage) OR Part D and a Medigap (Supplement)
plan
• Learn how to use your Medicare.
Annual Medicare Open Enrollment
October 15 - December 7
• Make sure your plan is the best fit based on cost, providers, and prescriptions.
• There is no penalty to change your Part D or Advantage Plan every year to cover
your needs.
• Talk to a SHICK counselor today to assist you with finding the most appropriate
plan for your needs.
SHICK offers free, unbiased Medicare counseling and education related to all parts of Medicare.