Turning 65 is an exciting and important live event
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But it can be complicated
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There are certain steps you need to take before you turn 65 to ensure you’re covered fully
A clip board with a four-step checklist labeled “Before I Turn 65” appears.
Here’s how to prepare
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The GIC will send you a GIC Medicare Plan Enrollment Form three months before your 65th birthday
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When you receive your “Turning 65” letter, head to SSA.gov
A laptop appears. On the laptop screen a web browser is opened and “ssa.gov” is typed in.
Create an account and check your eligibility for Medicare Part A for free and Medicare Part B
In the open browser window we see the SSA.gov homepage. A mouse clicks on a menu item, the user logs in, and we see the screen where one can check their eligibility for Medicare Parts A and B.
If you’re eligible, apply for Medicare parts A and B coverage directly with the SSA online
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The SSA will determine the Medicare effective date
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Once you apply for Medicare, you can use the GIC Medicare Plan Enrollment Form to elect a supplemental plan
If you want to continue GIC coverage, you must select a GIC Supplemental Medicare Plan
A form labeled “GIC Medicare Plan Enrollment Form” appears. The form is filled out in red. On-screen text reads “GIC Supplemental Medicare Plan”
GIC will process your request and notify your health and pharmacy plan of your Medicare plan election
The paper form is place in an envelope addressed to the Group Insurance Commission and sent offscreen.
You will receive notification from the plans about your new Medicare supplemental plan
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If you do not elect a plan, your GIC benefits will be canceled
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Keep in mind: If your GIC-covered spouse or dependent isn’t Medicare-eligible, they’ll remain on their non-Medicare plan
Once your spouse turns age 65, they’ll go through the same process
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If you’re still actively employed by the Commonwealth, turning 65, and not retiring, you and your GIC-enrolled family members will remain on your non-Medicare plan
An insurance card reading “GIC State Employee Health Insurance” appears. On-screen text reads: “If you’re still actively employed by the Commonwealth, turning 65, and not retiring”
Want to learn more about the GIC Medicare plan and rates?
Check our Benefit Decision Guide to learn more
The text above appears on screen. Below, we see the Benefit Decision Guide page on Mass.gov, and the GIC logo.
A Decision guide button appears and links to: