Medical Part A Question

[Sheahmad]

Hi everyone,

I'm trying to help my parents with getting medicare setup and was hoping someone could answer a question.

My mom is 65 and my dad is 61. My mom has never worked but my dad worked his whole life and had to take early retirement. My dad is still covered by his old employer's health insurance until his medicare benefits start at 62 (6 months away) however my mom is no longer covered.

My mom can receive part B benefits now but isn't eligible for part A until my dad turns 62 which makes sense but I was wondering what options I have to cover her until then?

I asked about paying full cost for Medicare part A ($400ish/month) and was told that I can do that but then she will not be eligible for getting the spousal benefits when my dad turns 62, is this true?

Will buying private insurance also have this effect?

Thank you for your time and help.

 

[MBSC]

Hello,

Since your Mother is 65, she should enroll in Medicare Part B, Part D drug coverage, and Medigap (Medicare Supplement) now. Waiting too long could result in penalties in the form of higher premiums later.

She should wait until your Father is age 62 and apply for no-premium Part A based on his work history.

She will need to purchase private, individual insurance to cover the 6 month Part A gap. If their income is low, she may be eligible for premium subsidies on the ACA exchange. Note that the exchange uses family income in determining subsidy eligibility. If she is healthy, other options could include purchasing a short-term health plan or possibly an indemnity plan.

I would advise they seek the help of a local, independent health insurance agent who can walk them through their different options.

 

[Sheahmad]

Thank you for your reply! I've scheduled a consultation with an agent listed on the ACA website so hopefully we can take care of this before the January 31st deadline.