Medicare and employer coverage — how they fit together.
Working past 65 is common. Whether to take Part B now depends on how big your employer is, what coverage you have, and what your spouse needs.
Get free guidance — no pressure
Free, no obligation. We share useful next steps based on what you tell us.
- One callback at most — we don't bombard you
- Your info stays private and is never sold
- Not connected with the U.S. government or Medicare
If your employer has 20+ employees
Your employer coverage is primary and Medicare is secondary. Many people delay Part B (to avoid the premium) and keep employer coverage. You can do this without triggering a Part B late penalty as long as you sign up within 8 months after your employment ends — that is your Special Enrollment Period.
If your employer drug coverage is "creditable," you can also delay Part D — see our late penalty guide.
If your employer has fewer than 20 employees
Medicare becomes primary at 65. You generally should enroll in Part A and Part B during your initial enrollment. Your employer coverage pays second.
If you delay Part B in this situation, you can leave gaps that the employer plan does not fully cover.
What to ask your benefits administrator
- Is our drug coverage "creditable" for Medicare? Get the letter in writing.
- How will the plan coordinate with Medicare if I enroll?
- What happens to my spouse's coverage if I drop out of the employer plan?
- Are there any retiree-specific options I would qualify for?