Losing Your Employer Health Coverage? Here's What to Do About Medicare.
Losing employer health insurance triggers a Special Enrollment Period — a limited window to enroll in Medicare without penalty. Don't let it expire without a plan.
Why Losing Employer Coverage Is a Medicare Turning Point
For millions of Americans, employer health insurance is the reason they delay Medicare past age 65. When that coverage ends — whether through retirement, job loss, or a spouse's retirement — a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) opens. This window gives you 8 months to enroll in Medicare Part B without the late enrollment penalty. But the clock starts ticking the moment your coverage ends.
Your 8-month SEP window starts when your employer coverage ends — not when you apply for Medicare. Act before it closes.
Which Situation Applies to You?
I'm retiring and losing my employer health plan
Act QuicklyWhen you retire, your employer coverage typically ends. You have an 8-month SEP to enroll in Medicare Part B. You should also evaluate Medicare Advantage or Supplement plans during this window to ensure seamless coverage from day one of retirement.
My spouse is retiring and I'm covered under their plan
Act QuicklyIf you've been covered under your spouse's employer plan and they retire, your SEP begins when their coverage ends. The same 8-month window applies. Don't assume you have more time — the window is the same regardless of whose employment ended.
I lost my job and my COBRA coverage is ending
Act QuicklyCOBRA is not considered creditable coverage for purposes of avoiding the Medicare late enrollment penalty. If you're 65 or older and on COBRA, you should enroll in Medicare as soon as possible. Delaying Medicare while on COBRA can result in a permanent Part B penalty.
I'm still working past 65 and have employer coverage
Good NewsIf you're actively employed at a company with 20+ employees and covered by their health plan, you can delay Medicare without penalty. Your SEP begins when your employment or coverage ends — whichever comes first.
The COBRA Trap — Don't Make This Mistake
Many people assume COBRA counts as creditable coverage that lets them delay Medicare without penalty. It does not. COBRA is a continuation of your former employer's group plan — but Medicare considers it secondary coverage, not primary. If you're 65 or older and on COBRA, Medicare should be your primary insurance. Delaying Medicare enrollment while on COBRA can result in a permanent Part B late enrollment penalty.
If you're on COBRA and over 65, call me before your next COBRA payment. You may be paying for coverage you don't need.
What to Do When You Lose Employer Coverage
Confirm your coverage end date in writing
Get written confirmation from your employer of the exact date your health coverage ends. This date starts your 8-month SEP clock.
Contact an independent Medicare broker immediately
Don't wait until your coverage ends. An independent broker can review your options and help you time your enrollment to avoid any gap in coverage.
Enroll in Medicare Part B
Contact Social Security to enroll in Part B. You can do this online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at your local Social Security office.
Choose your supplemental coverage
Decide between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement. This is also the time to enroll in a Part D drug plan if you choose Original Medicare or a Supplement plan.
Losing Employer Coverage Medicare FAQ
Losing Coverage Soon? Let's Make Sure You're Protected.
Don't let your Special Enrollment Period expire without a plan. I'll review your situation, explain your options, and make sure you have seamless coverage from day one — free, no obligation.