Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid During Medicare Enrollment

Medicare enrollment is a crucial step in your retirement planning, and making the wrong move can cost you time, money, and peace of mind. Whether you're turning 65 or making changes during open enrollment, it’s important to be informed. Here are the top 5 mistakes to avoid during Medicare enrollment and how to make smarter decisions.

1. Missing Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

Your Initial Enrollment Period is a 7-month window around your 65th birthday:

• 3 months before

• The month of your birthday

• 3 months after

Mistake: Missing this window can lead to coverage delays and permanent penalties.

✅ Avoid It: Mark your calendar and enroll on time, even if you're not ready to retire.

2. Not Signing Up for Part B on Time

Part B covers outpatient care, doctor visits, and preventive services. Delaying Part B enrollment without creditable coverage (like employer insurance) triggers a 10% lifetime penalty for every 12 months delayed.

✅ Avoid It: Enroll in Part B during your IEP unless you're covered by a qualifying employer plan.

3. Skipping Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage)

Even if you don’t take medications now, skipping Part D can lead to a penalty and high out-of-pocket costs later.

✅ Avoid It: Enroll in a low-cost Part D plan when you’re first eligible to avoid future penalties.

4. Assuming Medicare Covers Everything

Original Medicare does NOT cover:

• Prescription drugs

• Dental, vision, or hearing care

• Long-term care

✅ Avoid It: Consider enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) or add Part D and a Medigap plan for more comprehensive coverage.

5. Not Comparing Plans Annually

Many beneficiaries stick with the same plan year after year—even if it no longer meets their needs.

✅ Avoid It: Use the Medicare Open Enrollment Period (Oct 15 - Dec 7) to compare plans. Check for:

• Premium changes

• Drug formulary updates

• Provider network changes

  
  

Final Thoughts

Enrolling in Medicare doesn’t have to be confusing. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can save money, avoid penalties, and ensure you’re getting the coverage you need.

Need expert help? Lindbergh and Associates is here to guide you through every step of the Medicare enrollment process.

📞 Call us today or schedule a free consultation to make the most of your Medicare coverage.