Should Employees Apply for Medicare When Enrolled in an Employer-Sponsored Health Plan?

A recent study from Pew Research discovered that roughly one-in-five Americans ages 65 and older (19%) were employed in 2023 – nearly double the share of those who were working 35 years ago.

It’s common knowledge that when you turn 65, you become eligible for Medicare. But if you’re still working and you’re still enrolled in your employer’s health plan, what should you do?

Most individuals are not required to enroll in Medicare when they become eligible if they are still covered by an employer sponsored health plan. However, if you do choose to enroll in Medicare, there are things to consider depending on your personal situation and the size of the employer your work for. These factors determine whether Medicare pays primary or secondary to your employer’s plan for your healthcare needs.

Below is a flow chart that breaks down the payer rules for someone who is still on an employee-sponsored health plan and on Medicare, depending on their unique situation and size of the employer.

If you are turning 65, are actively employed, and plan to still be enrolled in your employer’s health plan, our Senior Market Advisors are available to help you navigate your options – at no cost to you.

For more information on Caravus and our Senior Market services, visit our Seniors page or contact us today.