How does Social Security and Medicare work (plan, supplement, benefits)

[LookingatFL]

I was talking to my husband's friend yesterday. I was really shocked to find out that he didn't realize that TriCare ends when he is 65 and that he will need to sign up for Medicare and that TriCare for Life will start and will be secondary to Medicare. So, while I was explaining all of this I realized that I don't know how the enrollment process works.

He started Social Security benefits when he turned 62. Does that mean that he will automatically be enrolled in Part A and Part B and he won't have to do anything? Or, will he have to enroll in both parts when he is 65? If he has to enroll, does he do it 3 months before his birthday? Does he have to fill out paperwork to enroll in Medicare?

Thank you for your enlightenment.

[JonahWicky]

I just went through this process. He will receive a Medicare enrollment card a couple of months before his 65th birthday. Part A is automatic, Part B is optional, but he will have to return the card is he wants to decline it (which it sounds like he doesn't). Therefore, no action will be required and the Part B premium will be automatically deducted from his monthly SS check, starting on the first day of the month he turns 65.

[LookingatFL]

Thank you, JonahWicky

[nicet4]

Originally Posted by LookingatFL

Thank you, JonahWicky

He may well need to sign up for a supplement plan and Part D which covers pharmacy. Not sure about this because maybe TriCare operates as a supplement or secondary at age 65? Something to check out though.

[LookingatFL]

Nicet4,

TriCare for Life acts as the supplement. There is no need for Part D as TriCare for Life covers the pharmaceuticals just as TriCare does.

[nicet4]

Originally Posted by LookingatFL

Nicet4,

TriCare for Life acts as the supplement. There is no need for Part D as TriCare for Life covers the pharmaceuticals just as TriCare does.

That makes it easy.