Medicare Enrollment Guide
Part A, B, C, D — what do you actually need? Understand your options, costs, enrollment windows, and penalties before you turn 65.
Part A: Hospital Insurance
Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care.
What It Covers
- Inpatient hospital stays
- Skilled nursing (up to 100 days)
- Hospice care
- Some home health care
Cost
Premium-free for most people (if you or spouse paid Medicare taxes 10+ years). Otherwise up to $518/month in 2026.
Enrollment
Automatic at 65 if receiving Social Security. Otherwise, sign up during Initial Enrollment Period (3 months before to 3 months after your 65th birthday).
Late Enrollment Penalty
If you delay and don't have qualifying employer coverage, you may pay 10% higher premiums for twice the number of years you were late.
Most people get Part A premium-free. There's rarely a reason to delay enrollment at 65.
Quick Comparison
IRMAA Surcharges (2026)
Based on Modified Adjusted Gross Income from your tax return 2 years ago.
| MAGI (Married Filing Jointly) | Part B Monthly | Part D Surcharge |
|---|---|---|
| Up to $206,000 | $185.00 | $0.00 |
| $206,001 - $258,000 | $259.00 | $13.70 |
| $258,001 - $322,000 | $370.00 | $35.50 |
| $322,001 - $386,000 | $480.90 | $57.30 |
| $386,001 - $750,000 | $591.90 | $79.00 |
| Over $750,000 | $628.90 | $85.80 |
Source: Medicare.gov. IRMAA thresholds are adjusted annually. A Roth conversion, property sale, or large RMD in one year can increase your premiums two years later.
Enrollment Timeline
Start comparing plans. Decide Original Medicare vs. Advantage.
Enroll in Part A (if not automatic). Decide on Part B (unless employer coverage).
Last chance to enroll without delay. After this, penalties may apply.
If employer offers creditable coverage, you can delay Part B penalty-free. Get proof in writing.
The right Medicare plan depends on more than just premiums.
Medicare Decisions Affect Your Entire Plan
Your income, tax strategy, and Social Security timing all influence your Medicare costs. We coordinate all of it so you don't get surprised by IRMAA surcharges or coverage gaps.
Get Medicare GuidanceThis guide provides general Medicare information for educational purposes. Premium amounts are approximate for 2026. For official enrollment assistance, visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE.
Medicare Planning for Tampa Bay Residents
Turning 65 in the Tampa Bay area means navigating Medicare enrollment alongside Florida's unique healthcare landscape. With major hospital systems like BayCare, AdventHealth, and Tampa General, understanding which Medicare Advantage plans include your preferred providers is critical.
Many Tampa Bay retirees don't realize that their income decisions — Roth conversions, large RMDs, or even a home sale — can trigger IRMAA surcharges that increase their Medicare premiums two years later. A coordinated plan accounts for this two-year lookback when making every income decision.
For Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas County residents approaching 65 — or already enrolled and wondering if you're in the right plan — schedule a free Medicare review with our team.
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