
Give Us a Call Before Your 65th Birthday.
Before You Turn 65, Request Your Free Medicare All-In-One Guide.
If you’re turning 65, it is time to understand the difference between Original Medicare versus Medicare Advantage.
As you approach this exciting milestone, you should know that you have choices. Original Medicare doesn’t cover everything, like prescription drugs, hearing aids, and routine dental care. Plus, Original Medicare only covers about 80% of the costs for your medical care leaving you with out of pocket expenses. Original Medicare may not provide all the coverage you’ll need to take care of yourself in the coming years.
You have options. When you select a Wellcare Medicare Advantage plan you may enjoy these EXTRA benefits with most plans:
Savings
Save money with $0 or low monthly premiums
Money Back
Get money back in your Social Security check with our Giveback plans
Prescriptions
Enjoy a comprehensive formulary with $0 or low copays on generic drugs
Preventive Coverage
Access to doctor visits, dental care and vision benefits
Over-the-Counter
Money towards healthcare items like vitamins, toothpaste and more
Fitness
FREE annual gym membership
Transportation
FREE transportation to your doctor and pharmacy
We offer a variety of plans, so it’s easy to compare and find a plan that’s right for you.
If you’re turning 65, when are you eligible to enroll?
You become eligible for Medicare benefits on the first day of the month you were born, but you can enroll earlier. You have a 7-month window, which is referred to as your Initial Enrollment Period, or IEP, to enroll. It starts three months before your 65th birthday month, includes your birthday month, and lasts for three months after your birthday month.
For example, if your 65th birthday is May 18th.
Your IEP starts February 1st and ends August 31st.
Before Birthday Month - There are advantages to enrolling early. If you apply for Medicare in the three months before your birthday month, your coverage will begin on the first day of your birthday month. In this example, if you apply in March, your coverage will begin May 1st - an early birthday present!
During Birthday Month - If you choose to apply during your birthday month, your coverage won’t start until the following month - here, your coverage would begin on June 1st.
After Birthday Month - If you apply for Medicare after your birthday month, your coverage will be delayed up to three months. In this example, if you apply in June, July or August, your coverage may not begin until December 1st. It is important to note that you may pay a penalty or have a gap in coverage if you don’t enroll when you’re first eligible.
It’s never too early to begin exploring your options. And we can help!
Call 1-877-823-8267 (TTY: 711)