02/13/2026
Here is a questions I get A LOT:...
📅 Can I delay Medicare Part B if I’m working?
Maybe — but only if your employer coverage qualifies.
You can usually delay Part B without penalty if:
✅ You (or your spouse) are actively working
✅ The employer has 20+ employees
✅ The insurance is considered “creditable”
If not, Medicare expects you to enroll at 65.
🏥 What does “creditable coverage” mean?
It simply means:
👉 Your work insurance is good enough that Medicare allows you to wait.
But here’s the catch:
Not all employer plans qualify
COBRA usually does NOT count
Retiree coverage often does NOT count
(And many people don’t find out until it’s too late.)
⚠️ Will I get penalized if I wait and shouldn’t have?
Unfortunately — yes.
If you delay Part B without proper coverage:
💸 Your premium goes up for life
📈 The longer you wait, the higher it gets
Same idea with prescription drug coverage (Part D).
🚫 The biggest myth
❌ Medicare is automatic
❌ Medicare is optional without consequences
✅ There are rules and timelines — and missing them costs money
✅ The good news
With the right guidance:
✔ You can avoid penalties
✔ Time enrollment correctly
✔ Keep your work coverage as long as it makes sense
✔ Transition smoothly when you retire
💬 The simple takeaway you can share:
If you’re turning 65 and still working, don’t guess.
Some people can delay Medicare safely — others can’t.
One wrong assumption can lead to lifetime penalties.
