Medicare
Medicare and a small employer: when you must sign up for Part B
If your employer has fewer than 20 employees, Medicare generally pays first, which means you usually need Part B when you turn 65, even if you still have the job plan.
The size rule
- 20 or more employees: your employer plan generally pays first, and you may be able to delay Part B without a penalty while you are covered through current work.
- Fewer than 20 employees: Medicare generally pays first, and a plan that expects Medicare to pay first may deny claims that Medicare would have covered.
- Retiree coverage and COBRA do not count as coverage through current work for this purpose.
Why it matters
If you wait on Part B when you should not, you can face a late penalty and unpaid medical claims. Ask your employer's benefits contact how many employees count toward the size rule, and get the answer in writing.
Have this ready when you call
- Your date of birth
- Your employer's size, if you know it
- Your job plan's card
- The date you turn 65
Common questions
What if my spouse works for a small employer?
The same size rule applies to coverage you have through your spouse's current work. Ask the employer's benefits contact.
Can I fix a late Part B enrollment?
There are limited enrollment windows, and a late penalty may apply. The sooner you ask, the more options you may have.
Related answers
Rather talk it through?
Call 855-367-1095 and a licensed agent will go through your situation with you. There is no charge to ask, and no obligation to enroll.
- Licensed insurance help
- No guaranteed eligibility, pricing, or availability
- Educational starting point
GetFastRates.com is not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. Calling connects you with licensed insurance help. Plan availability, costs, benefits, and enrollment rules can vary by state, carrier, and individual situation.