Millions of people get help from Medicare every year, and this coverage can be a lifesaver. But in spite of widespread usage, there are many misconceptions about Medicare. To learn more about this government insurance program as you prepare for your retirement, take a look at the truth behind some of the most pervasive Medicare myths.
1. Myth: Only Seniors Can Get Medicare
Truth: Although the majority of people on Medicare are seniors, the program also offers coverage to some younger people with disabilities or end-stage renal failure. If you're disabled and under age 65, you can get Medicare once you have received disability benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board for at least 24 months.
People with ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) can get on Medicare as soon as their disability benefits start. If you have end-stage renal failure, you can also get on Medicare right away, and in this rare situation, you can get your coverage backdated for up to a year if you don't sign up right away.
2. Myth: Everyone Over Age 65 Gets Medicare
Truth: In order to get Medicare after your 65th birthday, you must have paid into the system. While you are working, you pay a certain percentage of your income as Medicare premiums. Typically, you need to have at least 40 credits to qualify for Medicare. This equates to about 10 years of working.
As of 2020, you earn a credit for every $1410, and you can earn up to four credits per year. If you don't have 40 credits, you may be able to get Medicare, but you will have to pay a premium.
3. Myth: Medicare Starts Automatically.
Truth: Many people assume that if they've been paying premiums, Medicare starts right away when they turn 65, but actually, Medicare only starts automatically if you are receiving Social Security retirement benefits. In all other cases, you need to apply.
You can apply for Medicare online if you meet certain criteria. Otherwise, you can apply over the phone or in person at a Social Security office.
4. Myth: You Have to Be on Social Security to Receive Medicare
Truth: As indicated above, many seniors receive Social Security benefits while they are on Medicare, and disabled people may be receiving Social Security disability benefits while on Medicare. But you do not have to be on Social Security to receive Medicare. When you retire, you can delay your Social Security benefits up to age 70, but you are still eligible for Medicare as soon as you turn 65.
5. Myth: You Always Face a Penalty If You Delay Signing Up for Medicare Part B
Truth: When you sign up for Medicare, you automatically get Medicare Part A, and you can choose if you want Parts B, C, or D. Typically, if you don't sign up for Part B right away, you face a penalty on your premiums for the rest of your life, but when you have coverage through your employer, you can delay signing up for Part B until your coverage lapses, without facing a penalty.
Important Disclosures
All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however LPL Financial makes no representation as to its completeness or accuracy.
The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax planning or legal advice. We suggest that you consult with a qualified tax or legal advisor.
Sources
https://www.medicare.gov/getting-medicare-if-you-have-a-disability
https://www.medicare.gov/Pubs/pdf/10128-Medicare-Coverage-ESRD.pdf
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