Common Medicare Enrollment Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Enrolling in Medicare can be complicated, and making mistakes can lead to higher costs, coverage gaps, or penalties. To help you make informed decisions, here are the most common Medicare enrollment mistakes—and how to avoid them.

1. Missing Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is a 7-month window around your 65th birthday (3 months before, the month of, and 3 months after). Missing this period can result in late enrollment penalties.

✅ How to Avoid It: Sign up for Medicare on time through Social Security (SSA.gov) or call 1-800-MEDICARE.

2. Not Enrolling in Medicare Part B on Time

If you delay enrolling in Part B without qualifying employer coverage, you’ll face a 10% penalty for every year you were eligible but didn’t enroll.

✅ How to Avoid It: Enroll in Part B during your IEP unless you have employer coverage from a company with 20+ employees.

3. Assuming Medicare Covers Everything

Original Medicare does not cover:

❌ Prescription drugs (Part D required)

❌ Dental, vision, and hearing care

❌ Long-term care

✅ How to Avoid It: Consider adding a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan or Medigap & Part D for comprehensive coverage.

4. Not Signing Up for a Part D Plan When First Eligible

Even if you don’t take medications now, skipping Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage) can result in permanent penalties.

✅ How to Avoid It: Enroll in a low-cost Part D plan when first eligible to avoid penalties and future high costs.

5. Choosing the Wrong Medicare Plan

Many beneficiaries either overpay for coverage they don’t need or don’t have enough coverage.

✅ How to Avoid It: Compare Medicare Advantage, Medigap, and Part D plans annually to find the best option for your needs.

6. Not Reviewing Your Coverage Every Year

Medicare plans change annually, including premiums, provider networks, and drug formularies.

✅ How to Avoid It: Use the Medicare Open Enrollment Period (Oct 15 - Dec 7) to review and switch plans if needed.

7. Ignoring Extra Help & Medicare Savings Programs

If you have a low income, you may qualify for Medicare Savings Programs or Extra Help to lower costs.

✅ How to Avoid It: Check eligibility through SSA.gov or your state Medicaid office.

Final Thoughts

Avoiding these common mistakes can help you save money, get better coverage, and avoid penalties. If you need guidance, Lindbergh and Associates is here to help!

📞 Call us today or schedule a free consultation to ensure you make the right Medicare choices!