Retiring Spouse

Retiring Spouse Is Eligible for Medicare; But What about You?

You and your spouse have spent years making big plans for life after retirement. The moment has come when your spouse is retiring and eligible to enroll in Medicare, but you’re not quite there yet. You’ve got a little while yet before you’re also Medicare eligible.

Not to worry. Losing your employer group coverage because your spouse is retiring is a qualifying event that opens a special enrollment period when you can choose your own health insurance plan.

Pre-Medicare Coverge Just for You

Now that your spouse can rely on Medicare for health coverage, you might feel left behind. But having your very own health plan has its perks: You can find one that meets your personal health needs and timeline.

Just need something temporary until you’re Medicare eligible? Check out our Golden Rule Insurance Company Short Term health insurance plans.^F5

If you’re interested in longer term coverage, a different type of health plan may be more appropriate for your personal needs and retirement budget. It may be the perfect time to make a change from the kind of plan you’ve had before. Take a look at the types of individual health insurance plans we offer.

Additional Coverage Options for the Both of You

You and your spouse may also want to consider some additional coverage options together, such as Dental Insurance,^F83 which Medicare typically doesn’t cover, or Travel insurance^F82 as you begin to enjoy retirement living.

4 Tips for Finding the Right Plan – for You

1. Determine what type of plan you want

Compare new plans to what you’ve had before.
Check out the scope of benefits offered.
Determine what benefits you like and what you don’t.

2. Look for coverage that meets your health care needs

Do you visit the doctor’s office or hospital often?
What are your dental or vision needs?
Are there any medications you take regularly?
What current or upcoming health needs do you have?

3. Figure out your health care budget

Get a plan with a deductible, the amount you pay before your insurance pays anything, you are comfortable paying.
Choose a monthly premium, what you pay to have your insurance coverage, that fits your budget.

4. Know the cost benefits of in-network care

Look at your provider’s network options.
Make sure your health plan covers the providers you need.

Learn more about navigating health insurance before Medicare in our handy Transitions Through Health Care guide.

¹ Short term health insurance does not qualify as minimum essential coverage as defined in the Affordable Care Act and may not cover all Essential Health Benefits in your state. Signing up for this coverage may result in a tax penalty. Plans are subject to medical underwriting, and do not cover preexisting conditions.

² UnitedHealthcare Life Insurance Company or Golden Rule Insurance Company is the underwriter and Dental Benefit Providers, Inc. is the administrator of these dental plans.

³ UnitedHealthcare Global is part of UnitedHealth Group, Incorporated, a Fortune 10 company. Travel assistance services may be provided by or through UnitedHealth Group entities, and/or the UnitedHealthcare Global brand. SafeTrip Insurance Products are underwritten by U.S. Fire Insurance Company and Crum & Forster Segregated Portfolio Company (SPC), which are not related to UnitedHealth Group, Incorporated or the UnitedHealthcare family of companies.

Also of Interest:

Changing Health Insurance When You Marry What Events Allow Health Insurance Changes? Early retirement: What it’s all about

UHOQESPSRETIREA1