Work coverage vs. Medicare
Still working at 65?
Do not assume staying on the employer plan is automatically the best—or safest—choice.
Start with the size and type of employer coverage
Whether you can delay Medicare Part B without penalty often depends on whether coverage is based on current employment and on the employer’s size. COBRA and retiree coverage follow different rules.
Compare the real monthly cost
- Your payroll deduction for employee-only or family coverage.
- Part B premium and any income-related adjustment.
- Prescription drug costs and whether coverage is creditable.
- Deductibles, copays, maximum out-of-pocket exposure, and network limits.
- Whether a spouse or dependents still need the employer plan.
Do not cancel employer coverage first. Confirm Medicare effective dates and understand how changing coverage affects your spouse or dependents.
Bring these items to the review
Your latest benefits summary, payroll cost, employer size, prescription list, doctors, spouse/dependent needs, and expected retirement date.