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Medicare

Medicare made clearer: what each part covers, when to sign up, choosing between Medicare Advantage and Medigap, and how drug plans work.

Medicare basics

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Main guide

Medicare Explained: Parts A, B, C and D

Medicare is health insurance for people 65 and older, and some younger people with disabilities, but it's made of several parts with different rules and costs. This guide covers what each part pays for, what you'll pay, Original Medicare vs Medicare Advantage, Medigap, how to enroll, working past 65, deadlines and help with costs.
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Understanding Medicare

Medicare covers most Americans from age 65, but it's made up of several parts, with deadlines and choices that can affect your costs for years. Getting to grips with it before your 65th birthday makes the decisions much easier.

Start with Medicare explained, which covers Parts A, B, C and D, what you'll pay and how Original Medicare differs from Medicare Advantage. Then check when to sign up for Medicare to avoid late penalties, especially if you're still working.

The biggest choice is between a private Medicare Advantage plan and Original Medicare with a supplement. Medicare Advantage vs Medigap compares costs, networks and why timing matters. For prescriptions, see Medicare Part D drug plans.

Medicare amounts change every year, so always confirm current figures on Medicare.gov. Pond provides general information, not medical or financial advice.

Common questions

Your initial enrollment period lasts seven months, starting three months before the month you turn 65. If you still have coverage from a current job, you may be able to delay Part B. Check the rules before you decide, as late penalties can be permanent.

Yes. During Medicare open enrollment, October 15 to December 7 each year, you can switch between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage or change drug plans. Medigap has different rules, so check before switching.

Your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) offers free, unbiased counseling. You can also call 1-800-MEDICARE or use the plan finder on Medicare.gov.