Medicare can be complex and confusing, especially when it comes to planning for your future. Here are some of the most common questions people ask, answered by an elder law attorney in New Jersey experienced in Medicaid assistance.

• When can I enroll in Medicare? The Medicare enrollment period is open for 7 months for each individual. This period runs from 3 months before the month of your 65^th birthday, your birth month, and 3 months after your birth month. For anyone on Social Security, you are automatically signed up from the first day of the month in which you turn 65.
• Is my plan the same as my spouse/neighbor/friend? All plans are issued on an individual basis according to your unique criteria, so there may be differences between your plan and someone else’s.
• How much does Medicare cost? The cost depends on the level of coverage you choose. Most people don’t have to pay monthly premiums for Part A, while Part B is dependent on your income with most people paying $134 per month (this may be higher if your income is higher, and will be lower if you are on Social Security). Part C and D monthly premiums vary by plan and income as well.
• What long-term care does Medicare cover? Medicare will not cover long-term care if it is not medical in nature. It will cover long-term hospital care, skilled nursing, certain home health services, hospice care and respite care. Medicare Part A only covers nursing home care in a certified facility if certain individual conditions are met.
• Medicare Part A and Part B vs. Medicare Advantage Plan – What is better? This depends on your individual circumstances, but it may be a good idea to choose the Advantage plan if you are on prescription drugs, you want to cap your out-of-pocket health spending, you want vision and dental coverage, or you want an alternative to the 20% coinsurance on Part B.

Speak to a Leading Elder Law Attorney in NJ Today to Plan for Medicare Eligibility 

If you would like assistance in applying, understanding and accessing your Medicaid and Medicare benefits, speak to Frank R. Campisano today. Experienced in elder law, compassionate and committed to his clients, you’ll receive the highest quality legal expertise and guidance that will help you secure better care. In addition, you can also prepare additional estate planning documents, such as your Last Will and Testament, Healthcare Proxy, Power of Attorney documents and trusts. For more compassionate legal guidance and a free consultation, please contact us or visit our website at https://www.scclegal.com/