Medicare is complicated. This is the major criticism against it. Many Medicare mistakes occur regularly. Avoiding these mistakes ensures you’ll have fewer challenges in getting the care you require.

If you haven’t enrolled in Medicare yet, you’ll be well ahead of the game by keeping these mistakes in mind. Prevention is the best medicine.

If you’re currently enrolled, you can save yourself money and grief by determining that you’re not committing any of these common mistakes.

Avoid these common Medicare mistakes:

1. Assuming that the best Part D Plan is the same as your spouse’s. Consider your prescription needs. They may not be the same as your spouse’s needs. Be sure to determine the coverage for the specific medications you take regularly.

• Determine your out-of-pocket expenses separately for yourself and your spouse. Ensure that you’re both on the best plan for your situations.

2. Assuming you haven’t worked enough to qualify for Medicare. It’s only necessary to work for 40 quarters or ten years to avoid paying the dreaded Part A premiums. Part A covers hospital expenses. Be sure that you don’t qualify instead of making assumptions.
3. Believing that open enrollment is the only time you can make a change. There are qualifying circumstances that will allow you to change your plan outside the usual October 15^th through December 7^th. Do your research to see if any apply to you.
4. Not realizing that you can sign up for Medicare when you turn 65:

• If you’re not receiving social security benefits, you’ll have to sign up for Medicare manually. It’s possible to sign up online.
• If you receive social security benefits, you’re automatically enrolled in Medicare.

5. Paying significantly more in premiums due to a slight increase in income. Earning more than $85,000 per year can increase your premiums significantly. If you’re close to the limit, it’s worthwhile to make a few adjustments to stay below the $85,000 ceiling.
6. Attempting to combine a health savings account and Medicare Part A. You can’t do both. You can continue contributing to your HSA after age 65 but can’t enroll for Part A coverage. Determine which is more valuable for you.
7. Failing to get expert advice. Given how complicated Medicare can be, one of the worst things you can do is trust a friend’s advice.

• Your unique financial and health situations are essential factors when making Medicare decisions. His situation influences your friend’s advice. If you have questions, find a true expert.

8. Failing to sign up because you’re still employed. Depending on the quality of your employer’s insurance plan, signing up for Medicare can be very advantageous when you reach 65.
9. Assuming your healthcare providers will still be part of your Medicare Advantage plan. Advantage plans require that your hospital and healthcare providers be Part of the plan. Otherwise, you’ll pay more in co-payments.

• You can even be denied full coverage for a medical emergency. Choose a plan that includes your doctor, or find another doctor.

By avoiding these common Medicare mistakes, you can ensure that you have the most economical coverage. For financial benefits and peace of mind, take the time to examine your current coverage.