Part D is the prescription drug component of the Medicare program. If you want to get Part D coverage, you must enroll during the proper enrollment period. To learn more about enrolling in Part D, continue reading.
What Is Medicare Part D?
Medicare Part D provides prescription drug coverage to Medicare beneficiaries. The prescription drug plans featured in this part of Medicare are sold by private insurance companies that have contracted with Medicare.
Part D plans will all vary in cost and coverage. However, every Part D plan is expected to cover at least two prescription drugs from each class/category. These plans are also required to cover most if not all of the drugs that fall under these six specific categories:
- HIV/AIDS drugs
- Immunosuppressants
- Antipsychotics
- Anticancer
- Antidepressants
- Anticonvulsants
Contact Dale Frank Financial today to ensure you enroll in a Part D plan that provides the prescription coverage you need. Our expert agents will compare the Part D options available to you to help you find the coverage you need!
When Can You Enroll In Part D?
To enroll in Part D, you must do so during a designated enrollment period. Your options include your Initial Enrollment Period and Special Enrollment Periods. You can also use the Annual Enrollment Period.
Initial Enrollment Period
The Initial Enrollment Period begins three months before you turn 65, includes your birth month, and ends three months after you turn 65. During these seven months, you can enroll in a Part D prescription drug plan, as well as any other Medicare plan you wish to enroll in.
Keep in mind that this is the best time to enroll in a Part D plan. Delaying your enrollment in Part D can result in permanent late enrollment penalties that are added to your Part D monthly premium.
Special Enrollment Period
Special Enrollment Periods are only granted to people who have experienced unique life circumstances that may have prevented them from enrolling during another enrollment period. Some examples of life circumstances that could qualify you for a Special Enrollment Period include pregnancy, change of address, or loss of workplace coverage.
Annual Enrollment Period
The Annual Enrollment Period falls between October 15 and December 7 of each year. You can switch your Part D plan to another plan during this time, and changes will start on January 1.
Late Enrollment Penalties
Suppose you choose not to enroll in Part D coverage once you are eligible. In that case, you may face late enrollment penalties that increase the overall cost of coverage. The best way to avoid this penalty is to enroll during your Initial Enrollment Period. The penalty amount changes each year, so contact an insurance agent to learn what you will be subject to if you don’t purchase prescription drug coverage.
Join a Medicare Part D Plan Today!
Don’t wait to get prescription drug coverage. Have one of the talented agents at Dale Frank Financial help you get started by calling (413) 665-8324!
*Disclosure: Dale Frank Financial offers insurance products but is not affiliated with Medicare or the U.S. government. Insurance product guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims-paying ability of the issuing company.
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