08/31/2026
Retiring After Age 65? Don’t Wait Until Your Employer Health Insurance Ends to Start Medicare.
If you’re over 65, still working, and covered by an employer group health plan, transitioning to Medicare takes a little planning.
Ideally, start the process about 60 days before your employer coverage ends.
You may need to:
• Have your employer complete the CMS-L564 form verifying your employer health coverage
• Apply for Medicare Part B and coordinate the effective date with the end of your group coverage
• Make sure Medicare has processed and approved your Part B enrollment
• Once Part B is approved, compare Medicare Supplement (Medigap) options
• Select a Part D prescription drug plan based on your medications and pharmacies
The goal is simple: have your employer coverage end one day and your Medicare coverage begin the next — without an unexpected gap in coverage.
If retirement is coming up, don’t wait until your last week at work to figure it out. An experienced, independent Medicare agent can help you understand the timeline, coordinate the transition, and compare your options.
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