Medicare

Medicare benefits start at age 65, but many people continue working past that age, either by choice or need. It is important to understand how Medicare and employer coverage work together.

Medicare imposes significant late penalties if you postpone enrollment. This encourages everyone to sign up when they first become eligible. The penalty increases premiums based on how long you wait to enroll.  ...

All hospitals must now give Medicare recipients notice when they have not been admitted but are merely under "observation" status. The notice requirement is part of a law enacted in 2015 but that just took effect.

The Medicare program has become quite complex over the years.  Running afoul of its sometimes arcane rules can be expensive, and expert guidance is almost essential.  ...

Medicare Advantage plans are a popular alternative to regular Medicare because the plans often offer lower out-of-pocket costs, but buyers need to make sure they know what they are paying for.

A new Medicare rule will promote earlier diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Medicare will now reimburse primary care doctors who conduct an Alzheimer's evaluation and offer information about care planning to elderly patients with cognitive impairment.

One of President-elect’s Donald Trump's campaign promises was to repeal the Affordable Care Act, aka Obamacare, which would have implications for everyone covered by the insurance, but it could also adversely affect Medicare beneficiaries.

Some recipients of Medicare’s hospice benefit will no longer be forced to make a wrenching choice. A pilot program will allow selected Medicare beneficiaries to receive hospice care while also receiving curative treatment from their doctors.

While you are eligible to apply for Medicare when you are 65, there are circumstances where you might not want to, particularly if you are working full time for a larger employer or contributing to a health savings account.