Although most people 65 and older use Social Security and Medicare, these government programs remain a mystery. For example, Medicare has four main parts: part A, part B, part C, and part D. This is not to be confused with Medicare Supplements A, B, C, and D. To add to the confusion, most people who take Medicare part A and part B will need a supplement plan and part D. However, if you take Medicare part C, you cannot buy any supplement, in fact it’s illegal to do so. When you’re getting started, enrollment is confusing, but now you have the open enrollment periods each year adding further confusion.
Unfortunately, the Social Security rules are written in pencil and change frequently. Additionally, the laws are different depending on your year of birth. Should you collect early, make sure to wait, collect spousal benefits, File, and Suspend. There is so much involved and mistakes can be permanent. It was permissible before to undue mistakes at any time. Now the rules state mistakes must be fixed within 12 months. If you have any questions, reach out by email and we will try to answer as quickly as possible.