Medicare Part B:
What Is It?
FAQs.
Part B is medical insurance that helps cover:
Doctor visits & outpatient care
Preventive screenings & vaccines
Durable medical equipment (walkers, wheelchairs)
Some home health services
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Standard premium: $185/month (2025)
Annual deductible: $257 (2025)
Premium may be higher if your income is above a certain level

Most people enroll when they turn 65, during the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): 3 months before, the month of, and 3 months after their 65th birthday.
If they miss this window, they may face:
Late enrollment penalties (10% per year)
Delayed coverage
Some have employer coverage, which can change timing.
Yes, if you have credible employer coverage through yourself or a spouse.
You must provide a Form CMS L564 to delay without penalty.
Once the employer coverage ends, you enroll during a Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

Whether you’re approaching 65 or have been on Medicare for years, you deserve simple guidance and real support—not confusion or worry.
Works alongside:
Medigap / Supplemental Insurance
Employer coverage
Medicare Advantage (MAPD) plans
Flu, COVID, pneumonia vaccines
Mammograms, colonoscopies, diabetes & cholesterol tests
Annual wellness visits

Online: Social Security Website
Phone: 1-800-772-1213
In-person: Local Social Security office
Yes — the Late Enrollment Penalty (LEP) is 10% for each 12-month period you were eligible but didn’t enroll.
This can last for life, so it’s a big deal.

I specialize in helping seniors turning 65 or new to Medicare:
Understand your coverage options
Avoid costly mistakes and gaps
Make the enrollment process simple and stress-free
