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August 4, 2025
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Featuring Sandra DeStefano, Medicare Expert, in conversation with Elder Law Attorney Heather Chubb
Turning 65 brings many questions about Medicare: When should I sign up? What are my options? How do I avoid penalties? To help answer these questions, elder law attorney Heather Chubb sat down with Medicare expert Sandra DeStefano for an educational discussion on navigating Medicare enrollment and coverage.
Heather Chubb: “Sandra, can you start by explaining what Original Medicare is and why it’s important?”
Sandra DeStefano: “Absolutely. Original Medicare is the basic Medicare coverage everyone starts with. It has two parts: Part A and Part B. Part A covers hospitalization and skilled nursing care after a hospital stay. Part B covers doctor visits, urgent care, lab work, and outpatient services. When you sign up, you receive a red, white, and blue Medicare card with your coverage dates.”
Heather: “When is the best time for someone turning 65 to enroll?”
Sandra: “You have a seven-month window called the Initial Enrollment Period: three months before your 65th birthday month, your birthday month, and three months after. Signing up during this time means you won’t face penalties later. But if you’re still working and have employer health coverage, you can delay enrolling until you retire or lose that coverage.”
Heather: “If someone is covered by an employer plan and wants to delay Medicare, do they have to tell Medicare?”
Sandra: “No, you don’t have to notify Medicare in advance. But when you do enroll after leaving your employer coverage, you’ll need to prove you had continuous, credible coverage from age 65 until retirement. Usually, your employer provides a form showing this.”
Heather: “What’s the easiest way to sign up?”
Sandra: “You can call Social Security to set an appointment, go online at ssa.gov, or visit medicare.gov. I usually recommend signing up through ssa.gov because there’s a lot of helpful information there. And don’t worry if you’re unsure — I help many people over the phone walking them through the process.”
Heather: “What if someone misses their Initial Enrollment Period? Are there penalties?”
Sandra: “Yes, missing that window can lead to lifelong penalties, meaning higher premiums. But if you had credible coverage through an employer or your spouse’s employer, and can prove it, you can delay without penalty. Just be sure to enroll within a Special Enrollment Period once that coverage ends.”
Heather: “Beyond Original Medicare, what options do people have?”
Sandra: “There are two main options after Original Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) combine hospital, doctor, and prescription coverage—often like an HMO with network rules. Then there are Medigap (supplemental) plans that cover gaps in Original Medicare like copays but don’t include prescriptions, so you’ll need a separate drug plan. The right choice depends on your individual needs.”
Heather: “Why should people consider working with an expert like you?”
Sandra: “Medicare can feel overwhelming, but I’m passionate about educating people so they can make informed decisions. I offer workshops and one-on-one help to navigate options and find the best fit for each person’s situation. And remember, you’re not locked in forever — changes can be made, especially within the first year.”
Heather: “Any last words for those about to turn 65?”
Sandra: “Turning 65 is a milestone to celebrate! It’s the start of a new chapter with great options for your health care. Don’t be afraid—there’s lots of support and resources to help you figure it out. You’ve got this.”
If you’re turning 65 or want personalized help navigating Medicare, book a free discovery call with Chubb Law Firm PC today at (916) 241-9661. Let us guide you through the Medicare process and ensure you choose the best coverage for your needs.
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