Can I Delay Medicare If I’m Still Working? Here’s What to Know If You’re Turning 65 and Not Retiring Just Yet

Can I Delay Medicare If I’m Still Working? Here’s What to Know If You’re Turning 65 and Not Retiring Just Yet

If you’re approaching 65 but still working — or covered by a spouse who is — you might be wondering:

Do I need to sign up for Medicare right away? Or can I wait?

Good news: In many cases, you can delay Medicare without penalties. But it depends on your situation. Let’s walk through what to consider before making that decision.

The Basics: Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

When you turn 65, you become eligible for Medicare. Your Initial Enrollment Period is a 7-month window:

• 3 months before your birthday month

• The month of your birthday

• 3 months after

This is when most people enroll — but if you’re still working, you may not have to.

If You’re Covered by Employer Insurance

The big factor is whether you’re covered under a group health plan — either through your own job or your spouse’s — and how big the employer is.

• If your employer has 20 or more employees

  You can delay Part B (and sometimes Part A) without penalty. Your employer coverage is considered primary, and Medicare will be secondary.

  
  

• If your employer has fewer than 20 employees

  Medicare becomes primary, and your employer plan is secondary. In this case, it’s important to enroll in Part A and Part B to avoid gaps in coverage.

What About Medicare Part A?

Part A is usually premium-free if you’ve paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years. Some people enroll in Part A at 65 even if they’re still working, just to have it in place.

But there’s a catch — if you have a Health Savings Account (HSA), enrolling in any part of Medicare (even just Part A) means you can no longer contribute to your HSA. Something to think about before signing up.

Delaying Part B and Part D

If your employer coverage is credible (meaning it meets Medicare’s standards), you can delay Part B and Part D without penalties.

When you do retire or lose employer coverage, you’ll qualify for a Special Enrollment Period — an 8-month window to enroll in Part B, and 63 days for Part D.

Bottom Line

Yes, you can delay Medicare if you’re still working — but the rules depend on your employer size, coverage type, and whether you’re contributing to an HSA.

The safest move? Talk to someone who understands the ins and outs of both Medicare and employer plans. We’ll help you avoid penalties, keep your costs low, and make a plan that fits your lifestyle.

Still working past 65? Let’s chat about the best timing for you.