What is covered by Medicare Part B and how does it work?
Medicare Part B helps pay for doctors’ visits, outpatient hospital care, and some other medical services that Part A doesn’t cover, such as the services of physical and occupational therapists, and some home health care. Part B helps pay for these covered services and supplies when they are medically necessary. Information about your coverage under Medicare Part B can be found in the Medicare.gov coverage database.
How do I Enroll in Medicare Part B?
If you already receive Social Security Benefits, you will automatically be enrolled in Medicare Part A and B the month you turn 65. Three months prior to your birthdate, you should be receiving your Medicare card in the mail.
If you don’t receive Social Security benefits, you need to apply at the beginning of your seven-month initial enrollment period (90 days prior to your 65th birthday) to make sure your coverage start date will not be delayed. Please call or visit your Social Security office to sign up. At this time, you have also the option to apply for Social Security Benefits.
What is the late enrollment penalty for Part B?
If you don’t sign up for Medicare Part B when you are first eligible, you may have to pay a late enrollment penalty for as long as you have Medicare. Your monthly premium for Part B may go up 10% for each full 12-month period that you could have had Part B, but didn’t sign up for it. Usually, you don’t pay a late enrollment penalty if you sign up for Part B during a special enrollment period.
Do I have to enroll in Part B?
Enrolling is your choice. However, you will automatically be enrolled if you qualify for traditional Medicare, and have to opt out if you don’t want it.
How do I opt out of Part B coverage?
If you want to opt out of Part B coverage, you will need to follow the instructions with your Medicare card.
Do I have to pay for Medicare Part B?
Yes, you have to pay a monthly premium for Part B, plus a deductible. You will have to pay the standard premium amount, or a higher premium if your income is over a certain amount. You can find more information about the current premiums at Medicare.gov
If you have limited income and resources, your state may help you pay for Part A and/or Part B.
You may add additional coverage to original Medicare by comparing Medigap, advantage plan, and prescription drug plan benefits and costs, in order to help cover the costs that are not covered.
