Should I Get Medicare Part B?

Medicare Part B covers many everyday medical services, including:


  • Doctor visits and outpatient care
  • Preventive services and screenings
  • Lab work and diagnostic testing
  • Durable medical equipment


Part B requires a monthly premium and typically includes deductibles and coinsurance.


Speak with a licensed agent and receive personalized guidance for your coverage options.

The Four Parts of Medicare

When You Should Enroll in Part B


Many people enroll in Part B when they first become eligible at age 65. However, if you are still working and have qualifying employer coverage, you may be able to delay enrollment without penalty.


The key is understanding whether your current coverage qualifies.


If You Have Employer or Union Coverage


If you or your spouse are still working and you have health insurance through that employer, you may not need to enroll in Part B right away.


Before delaying, it’s important to confirm:


  • Whether your employer coverage is considered creditable for Medicare
  • How your plan works with Medicare
  • When your Special Enrollment Period would begin after coverage ends


Your benefits administrator can help explain your coverage, and we can help you review how it fits with Medicare.


Coverage That Does NOT Count for Delaying Part B


Not all coverage allows you to delay Medicare without penalty. The following are not considered current employer coverage:


  • COBRA
  • Retiree coverage
  • VA coverage
  • Individual or Marketplace (ACA) plans


If you rely on one of these, you typically should enroll in Part B when first eligible.


TRICARE and CHAMPVA


If you have TRICARE or CHAMPVA, enrollment in both Part A and Part B is generally required to maintain your benefits.


If you are on active duty or covered as a family member of someone on active duty, different rules may apply. It’s important to confirm your status before making changes.


Medicaid and Medicare


If you have Medicaid, enrolling in Part B is usually beneficial.


Medicare becomes your primary coverage, and Medicaid may help cover remaining costs such as premiums, deductibles, and copayments.


Marketplace (ACA) Coverage


If you have Marketplace health insurance, you should not delay Medicare enrollment once you are eligible.


Once you qualify for Medicare:


  • You may lose financial assistance for your Marketplace plan
  • You may need to repay subsidies at tax time
  • You could face delays in coverage if you transition incorrectly


It’s important to plan your transition carefully to avoid gaps or penalties.


Health Savings Accounts (HSA)


If you contribute to a Health Savings Account (HSA), timing your Medicare enrollment is especially important.


Once Medicare coverage begins, you can no longer contribute to an HSA. Because Part A coverage may be applied retroactively, contributions must stop in advance to avoid tax penalties.


We can help you review your timing so you stay compliant and avoid unexpected issues.


Avoiding Late Enrollment Penalties


One of the biggest risks with Part B is enrolling at the wrong time.


If you delay enrollment without qualifying coverage, you may face a lifetime penalty added to your monthly premium.


This is why reviewing your situation before making a decision is important.

Talk with a Local Medicare Agent in Bedford

Every situation is different. Whether you’re still working, transitioning off employer coverage, or unsure how your plan works with Medicare, we can help you make the right decision.


Croft Insurance Services, Inc. is based in Bedford and serves clients throughout Central and Southwest Virginia.


Call 540-586-3500 or submit a request through our contact form to review your Part B timing and avoid costly mistakes.