Still Working at 65? Here’s How Medicare Works with Employer Coverage

Feb 18

If you’re turning 65 and still working, you’re not alone.

One of the most common questions I hear is:
“Do I really need Medicare if I’m still covered through work?”

The answer is: it depends, and understanding how Medicare works alongside employer coverage can save you stress, confusion, and costly mistakes.

First, Take a Breath

Turning 65 doesn’t automatically mean you have to give up your employer insurance or make rushed decisions. Medicare isn’t one-size-fits-all, especially for people who are still working or covered under a spouse’s plan.

How Medicare Coordinates with Employer Coverage

Whether Medicare becomes your primary coverage, or stays secondary depends on:

The size of your employer
Whether your coverage is through your job or a spouse’s
The type of plan you have

Some people enroll in certain parts of Medicare while continuing to work. Others delay without penalty. The key is knowing which parts apply to you and when enrollment actually matters.

Common Misconceptions I See All the Time

“If I don’t enroll at 65, I’ll be penalized.”
“Medicare automatically replaces my work insurance.”
“Everyone should do the same thing.”

None of those statements are universally true.

This is why personalized guidance matters. Your work situation, health needs, and retirement timeline all play a role.

Why January Is a Smart Time to Learn

Without enrollment deadlines looming, January is an ideal time to:

Review how your employer coverage works with Medicare
Ask questions calmly
Plan ahead so nothing catches you off guard later

Learning early gives you options. Waiting until there’s pressure limits them.

Local Medicare Help Makes This Easier

Medicare rules are federal, but real life is local.

As a local Medicare broker serving Southern Arizona, I help people who are still working at 65 understand their options clearly—without pressure, sales tactics, or confusion.