Can I Refuse Medicare?
When a person reaches 65 and receives retirement benefits, he may wonder if he has to take Medicare. Although there are many reasons to take Medicare, including making sure a person has health care insurance for the rest of his life.
A person with the means or who does not want to add to the national debt may wonder if he or she can refuse Medicare. A person can refuse Medicare coverage, but there are good reasons why he should not do so.
Refusing Different Parts of Medicare Coverage
Medicare Part A covers hospitalization services. The government does not charge premiums for people who qualify for the program. A person can choose not to sign up for Part A, but there is usually no reason not to do so.
Medicare Part B usually costs the person $96.40 per month. People with a higher income may pay slightly higher premiums. The premiums are usually deducted from the paycheck. A social security recipient with limited income who relies on this check may choose to opt out of the program, but he may want to see if he can get help from Medicaid or Medicare programs first.
Choosing to Refuse Medicare
A person does not have to take Medicare. Part A or B, but he must fill out paperwork stating his intentions to refuse Medicare. Individually choosing not to participate in the Medicare program is not a lifelong decision. A person cannot re-enroll in the program later if his economic circumstances change.
Some people, such as those with end-stage renal failure will find themselves automatically covered by the program even if they did not apply. The doctors and the hospitals know whom they need to bill and the paperwork they need to fill out in this case. Medicare provides broad ranges of coverage, but sometimes a person may have better health care insurance.
Related posts:
- Can My Doctor Refuse To Accept Medicare Coverage?
- Can Medicare Refuse To Pay My Hospital Bill?
- Are There Problems With Medicare?
- Does Everyone Pay the Same for Medicare Part B?
- What if I Can’t Afford Medicare Part D?
I am covered by husband’s federal policy. I was told by them I am completely covered by his policy. He does not turn 65 for two years. I will be 65 in Jan. of this year. My question is how do I opt out of accepting Medicare? There does not seem to be an easy way. I was told by Medicare to call Social Security but they are not answering the phones. I do not want to spend the extra money for coverage I already have.
Thank You