Commonly asked questions:
How do I know if I qualify for retirement benefits?
Reference the Collective Bargaining Agreement per classification.
I'm getting ready to retire, what do I need to do?
Contact the following for information:
How much would my monthly premium be?
Can I keep my dependents on my plan?
Can I change my plans when I retire?
When does my District benefit coverage end?
Basic Medical Information
Many people have trouble navigating Medicare Enrollment requirements. The Initial Enrollment period is starts three months before your 65th birthday month and extends for three months afterward. Most folks are automatically enrolled in Part A (Hospital Coverage), however, Part B (Medical Insurance) requires a monthly premium and enrollment. If you are still actively employed at the time of your 65th birthday, you and your eligible and enrolled spouse/domestic partner may delay enrollment in Part B without incurring a penalty, however, you should visit the Medicare office to defer and document all your conversations. Once you retire, you and your eligible and enrolled spouse/domestic partner may no longer defer and have eight months to sign up for Medicare Part B before incurring a late penalty. Contact Medicare about how and when to enroll to avoid a penalty and gap in coverage within 3 months of turning 65.
Resources and links
For free personalized Medicare counseling services: State Health Insurance Assistance Programs, http://www.shiptacenter.org or call (800) MEDICARE, or (800) 633-4227
Medicare Rights Center help line: (800) 333-4114 or online at Medicare Interactive, http://www.medicareinteractive.org
Center for Medicare Advocacy: http://www.medicareadvocacy.org/medicare-info
Medicare Website for Information www.medicare.gov