CALIFORNIA · A CLEARER START
Still working at 65? Questions to ask first
How current employment, employer coverage, and HSA contributions can affect Medicare decisions.
I’m still working. Can I wait on Part B?
Possibly, if you have group health coverage based on your or your spouse’s current employment. Employer size and plan rules matter: a smaller employer may require Medicare to pay first. The usual Part B Special Enrollment Period ends eight months after work or qualifying coverage ends, whichever comes first. COBRA does not extend that clock. Before delaying Part B, confirm with your benefits administrator and Social Security; mention any HSA contributions too.
What if I have an HSA?
Ask for advice before enrolling. Medicare says that once Medicare coverage begins, contributing to a Health Savings Account can result in additional taxes. The effective date matters, and Part A can have special timing rules for people who apply after 65. Coordinate with Social Security, your employer benefits office, and a tax professional before starting Medicare or making further HSA contributions.
Three things to do next
- Ask whether coverage is based on current employment.
- Ask the benefits administrator how the employer plan coordinates with Medicare.
- Confirm HSA contribution timing before enrolling.
Check the official sources
AI assisted the preparation of these explanations from the listed sources. This is general education, not a personalized recommendation. Confirm current rules and individual dates with the appropriate official source. Our editorial approach.