Dear Nana,
I have been working to understand Medicare insurance so that I can explain it to you and your friends. This market is confusing, as are many insurance topics. I feel that the way technology is improving the world today at such a fast pace, your generation is being forced to adapt to “improvements” that don’t seem to suit the lifestyle you’ve grown fond of.
These letters are for you to learn the basics, if you need more explanation, I’m always a phone call away. I was given an office phone, put my number in your contacts: 701-478-0113
I want to tell you what Medicare is, and how it can help protect your dream for a happy retirement. Let’s continue from my last letter when I introduced the fundamentals of the system. Let me tell you when people begin Medicare.
Medicare is primarily retiree’ health insurance. There are key timelines that most people will follow to sign up or make changes. Most begin Medicare during their “Initial Enrollment Period.”
Most people begin Medicare during their 65th birthday month. The exact time you sign up depends on your health and current insurance situation. There is no specific time requirement to prepare for a decision, but I believe you should begin to make decisions 2-3 months before an “enrollment period.”
Eligibility typically begins the month you turn 65. That month, the three months prior, and the three months following make up the 7 month “Initial Enrollment Period.” If you are receiving Social Security benefits, your Medicare benefits will automatically begin the month you turn 65. If not, you will need to enroll.
As I mentioned in my last letter, there are public and private sides to Medicare. The government requires that everyone eligible for Medicare has “creditable coverage.” This means if you don’t have access to creditable health insurance, you will need to begin Medicare to avoid lifetime premium penalties.
Creditable Coverage is insurance that provides benefits equal to or greater than Medicare. The answer to the question: When do I enroll in Medicare? is truly dependent on who asks the question. The most secure way to know when the time is right is to talk with a professional who will help navigate unique circumstances.
This is basis for an understanding, but only an introduction. Call me, write me, or message me and I will share more of my learning with you.
I hope to see you soon,
Dylan
Dylan Sunderland 
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