Charles Wheeler, Medicare Insurance Broker
About Me
Dedicated to helping clients with their healthcare needs and financial goals as they prepare for, or are already in, retirement. Being a trusted partner and advocate by providing solutions and options that are in my clients best interest.
My Google Reviews
1 Total Reviews (5.0)
February 14, 2024
I have worked with Charles Wheeler the last few years on Medicare options. He provided helpful and honest recommendations and information on what was available to me. He was consistently thorough and prompt with his emails and our phone conversations were always productive. He is a straight shooter, easy to work with and seems like a genuine nice guy, as well as an expert in his field. If you need some guidance on Medicare options, I would recommend Charles as a great place to start.
Articles by Charles Wheeler
Q&A with Charles Wheeler
What happens if I am already retired and collecting Social Security when I turn 65?
Answer: If you are already retired AND collecting Social Security, congratulations! A few months ahead of your birth month you will be AUTOMATICALLY enrolled in Medicare A and B. Among the piles of literature you receive from health insurance companies, you will be sent a card in the mail showing your Medicare ID# and effective dates (the month you turn 65). If you plan on using Medicare as your health insurance moving forward you do not need to take any further action.
Will I be penalized if I do not enroll in Medicare when I turn 65?
Answer: A big concern for people as they turn 65 is if they DO NOT enroll in Medicare they will be penalized. It is a common misnomer. The truth is someone will be penalized if (1) They do not enroll in Medicare when first eligible AND (2) They DO NOT have credible coverage from another source (employer, spousal coverage, etc). If you continue to work, or have insurance through your spouse, (as long as it is creditable) you WILL NOT be penalized.
What do I need to do if I didn’t take Medicare at 65 and am now retiring?
Answer: A few things need to happen AHEAD of your retirement date. First, once you know the date you are retiring you will need to apply for Medicare Part B. You will need to create a 'special enrollment period' as you are (most likely) outside your turning 65 enrollment period. You will need to fill out Medicare Forms: CMS L564 and CMS 40B. CMS L564 is partly filled out by you and then the remainder is completed by your employer. It explains that you are retiring and losing employer coverage. CMS 40B is your application for Medicare Part B. It, along with CMS L564, explains to Medicare that you are losing coverage through your employer and now need to elect your Medicare Part B benefits.