Medicare insurance options at a glance

Medicare hospital insurance (Part A)

Medicare coverage to help cover medical costs if you're hospitalized.

What will I pay?

A deductible may apply.

When do I enroll?

You're automatically enrolled at age 65 if you're receiving Social Security or RRB benefits. If not, you need to enroll during your initial enrollment period. Contact Social Security to sign up.

Medicare medical insurance (Part B)

Insurance coverage for doctor visits, tests and other everyday health care services.

What will I pay?

A monthly premium and an annual deductible.

When do I enroll?

You're automatically enrolled at age 65 if you're receiving Social Security or RRB benefits. If not, you need to enroll during your initial enrollment period. Contact Social Security to sign up.

Medicare Advantage (Part C)

A plan offered by a private insurer that provides your health insurance coverage (Part A and Part B). It may offer extra coverage and prescription drug coverage. You must be enrolled in Original Medicare Part A and Part B to be eligible.

What will I pay?

A monthly premium and you must continue to pay your Part B premium.

When do I enroll?

At age 65 you can enroll during your initial enrollment period. If you're already enrolled, you can change plans during the annual election period which is Oct. 15 - Dec. 7.

Medigap (Medicare Supplement)

A plan offered by a private insurer that helps pay some of the health care costs that Original Medicare doesn't cover, like copayments, coinsurance and deductibles. You must be enrolled in Original Medicare Part A and Part B to be eligible.

What will I pay?

A monthly premium and you must continue to pay your Part B premium.

When do I enroll?

At age 65 you can enroll during your open enrollment period.

Prescription drug coverage (Part D)

A plan offered by a private insurer that helps cover prescription drug costs. You must be enrolled in Original Medicare Part A and/or Part B to be eligible.

What will I pay?

A monthly premium and a Part B premium (if enrolled).

When do I enroll?

At age 65, you can enroll during your initial enrollment period. If you're already enrolled, you can change plans during the annual election period which is Oct. 15 - Dec. 7.

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