8 Things Retirees Must Do Before Enrolling or Renewing Medicare Coverage

Enrolling in Medicare is a major step in your retirement plan — and one that requires more preparation than many people realize. Each decision, from when to sign up to which plan you choose, can affect your out-of-pocket costs and access to care for years to come. Even if you're already enrolled, reviewing your coverage before renewal ensures it still meets your evolving health and financial needs.

Here are eight key things every retiree should do before enrolling or renewing Medicare coverage.

Sign up for Medicare at the right time

You won't automatically be enrolled in Medicare when you turn 65 unless you're already receiving Social Security benefits, according to AARP. That means you must actively apply for coverage during your initial enrollment period, which starts three months before and ends three months after your 65th birthday month.

Delaying can be expensive: Medicare may impose a 10% lifetime penalty for each year you go without Part B coverage after you become eligible. If you currently have coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace, remember that those premium subsidies end once you qualify for Medicare.

Compare original Medicare and Medicare Advantage

Before enrolling, take time to understand the difference between original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans. Original Medicare (Parts A and B) lets you go to the hospital and see most doctors nationwide. On the other hand, Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans include Parts A, B, and D and often offer lower premiums and added benefits like dental or vision, but limit you to a provider network.

AARP notes that switching between these two systems later can be difficult. Evaluating your health needs, travel habits, and provider preferences now can help you make a decision you won't regret later.

Prepare for Medicare's coverage gaps

Even though Medicare covers most medical expenses, it doesn't pay for everything. You'll still face out-of-pocket costs such as premiums, deductibles, copays, and coinsurance, as per AARP.

For example, most retirees pay a monthly premium for Part B, and services like dental, vision, and long-term care are typically excluded. Planning for these costs in advance — through savings or supplemental insurance — can prevent surprises later. Understanding what Medicare covers and what it doesn't helps you build a more accurate healthcare budget.

Purchase a Medigap policy if necessary

AARP highlights that if you choose original Medicare, you may want to buy a Medigap (Medicare Supplement) policy to help cover what Medicare doesn't, such as certain deductibles and the 20% coinsurance for Part B services.

Delaying your Medigap purchase can cost you later. You have a six-month Medigap open enrollment window after you first enroll in Part B, during which you can buy any plan without being denied for preexisting conditions. Waiting beyond that period may lead to higher premiums or even rejection. Acting early can ensure access to affordable supplemental coverage.

Find out if your preferred doctors accept your plan

Before finalizing your Medicare plan, make sure your doctors and specialists will accept it. It's recommended to call your providers' billing departments to confirm which plans they'll take in 2026.

If your current doctor is leaving your plan's network, you'll need to decide whether to switch providers or find a plan that keeps them covered. Confirming this ahead of time can save you from unexpected out-of-network costs or the hassle of changing physicians.

Compare existing plan with alternatives

Even if you're satisfied with your current Medicare coverage, it's worth comparing it to other available plans. Premiums, benefits, and coverage details can change every year, and you might find a better option for your needs.

You can use the Medicare Plan Finder at Medicare.gov or contact your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for free guidance. Even small changes in premiums or drug costs can add up, so a quick comparison can lead to meaningful savings.

Confirm whether your existing plan is still sufficient for your health needs

Your health can change from year to year, and your Medicare plan should evolve with it. Review your existing coverage and make sure it still meets your current medical needs and prescriptions.

It's suggested to check whether your preferred hospitals, specialists, and medications remain covered for 2026. If not, switching plans during open enrollment may be the smarter move. Aligning your plan with your health ensures peace of mind and better long-term care access.

Find out if your existing plan may have changed

Medicare plans can change yearly, often in ways that affect your costs and coverage. Review the "Annual Notice of Change" (ANOC) your insurer sends each year to understand updates to your plan's premiums, covered drugs, and out-of-pocket expenses.

If you didn't already receive this notice, contact your plan provider directly. Taking the time to read the details can ensure you won't be surprised by higher costs or reduced benefits when the new plan year begins.

Bottom line

Enrolling in or renewing Medicare coverage isn't something to rush through — it's an essential part of protecting your health and finances in retirement. Reviewing your options, confirming your coverage, and planning for out-of-pocket expenses can help you avoid penalties and costly surprises.

By taking these steps now, you can enjoy more confidence and control over your healthcare decisions — and focus on what matters most: a healthy, stress-free retirement.

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