
insurance
7 mistakes to avoid when signing up for Medicare
Securing adequate healthcare coverage is paramount, especially as one approaches retirement. Many people above 65 consider Medicare, the federal health insurance program for this age group. While Medicare offers numerous benefits, the enrollment process can often be daunting and complex. Consequently, one can overlook critical aspects, leading to financial strain and delays in accessing healthcare services. Here are a few common mistakes one must avoid when signing up for Medicare. Not signing up at the right time One of the most critical mistakes to avoid when enrolling for Medicare is not doing so at the right time. The initial enrollment period (IEP) for individuals about to turn 65 begins three months before their birth month and ends three months after that month. In other words, one has an IEP of seven months. If a person fails to enroll during this period, they still have a chance to sign up during the general enrollment period (GEP), which is from January 1 to March 31. However, this can lead to higher premiums and delays in accessing necessary healthcare services. Moreover, after missing out on the IEP, individuals would have to wait until the next GEP, leaving them without coverage for an extended duration.
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