Medicare is a critical safety net for the American people. In fact, there are more than 44 million Americans on Medicare today. This accounts for roughly 15 percent of the nation’s population.
This figure is expected to grow to 79 million over the next eight years. The Baby Boomer generation is now becoming eligible for the program and enrollment is expected to surge as a result.
Open enrollment is the vehicle in which new members join the Medicare program. Read on to learn all about Medicare open enrollment 2022. Explore topics such as Medicare insurance coverage and how to navigate the open enrollment period.
What Is Medicare?
Before diving into open enrollment, it is important to briefly define Medicare. This is an entitlement program offered by the federal government.
American workers pay into Medicare on each paycheck through automatic deductions. Each pay period, 1.45 percent of your earnings are deducted to fund the program. Your employer contributes an equal amount.
Medicare provides health insurance for elderly and disabled Americans. You can purchase expanded health insurance and prescription drug coverage for a premium as well.
What Is Medicare Open Enrollment?
Every year on October 15th, Medicare opens enrollment for new members and changes to current plans. The open enrollment period lasts less than two months. December 7th is the last day for new members and changes.
Many people assume that they do not need to participate in open enrollment. The fact is that each year Medicare releases plan materials such as Annual Notice of Changes (ANOC) and Evidence of Coverage (EOC).
You should review these materials upon receipt each year. If your coverage is changed in a way that is not satisfactory to you, open enrollment provides an opportunity to rectify that.
Am I Eligible For Medicare?
Before looking into open enrollment, let’s discuss the eligibility criteria. The vast majority of people qualify for Medicare due to their age.
On your 65th birthday, you become eligible for the entitlement program. This is referred to as the initial enrollment period and can take place anytime during the calendar year.
Those with a disability are also eligible for Medicare benefits. If you are receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), then you can acquire Medicare coverage as well. To receive Medicare with a disability claim, you do not need to meet the age requirement of 65 years old.
What Is Medicare Advantage?
Medicare Advantage, or Part C, is additional coverage that Americans can purchase. It is important to understand that Part C has a different open enrollment period.
The timeframe for new coverage applications or changes starts on January 1st. The open enrollment period extends through to the end of March.
Your Guide To Medicare Open Enrollment 2022
Now you are ready to join the millions of Americans on Medicare. This is a program that you pay into during your career. It provides you with quality health insurance options when you can no longer work due to age or disability.
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