Enrolling in Medicare Part B and Part D vs spouse’s work insurance
Hi, Terry, I have insurance through my husbands work. I enrolled in Medicare Part A when I turned 65 (Dec. 2025). I want to enroll in Part B and Part D this year because it’s too expensive through my husbands plan. Will I have to pay a penalty because I didn’t enroll at 65? Thanks.
Terry Says
No, there won’t be a penalty. BUT, have you considered the TRUE COST of switching to traditional Medicare? First of all, your monthly premium may be higher than you think because of the IRMAA adjustment based on your joint income, not just yours!
Read this to figure out your monthly Part B premium: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/medicare/medicare-premiums-2026-irmaa-brackets-and-surcharges-for-parts-b-and-d
Second, Part D premiums are all going up this year, because the govt removed some subsidies. Check what your premium would be, and what your out of pocket costs might be at Medicare.gov, but putting in your prescriptions.
Then, check to see what a Part G supplement could cost. You can also do that at Medicare.gov.
When you add it all up, I’m betting you’ll stick with your husband’s insurance, where the premiuim is generally paid pre=tax. Look before you leap!
