“Mistake Monday: Don’t Delay Part B—Avoid Costly Late Enrollment Penalties”

Welcome to Mistake Monday on Real Easy Medicare with Al Kushner! In this episode, Al uncovers one of the most expensive errors seniors make: postponing Medicare Part B without creditable coverage.Creditable Coverage DefinedWorks: employer-sponsored insurance (you or spouse) from companies with 20+ employeesDoesn’t count: individual market plans, ACA marketplace, short-term policies, COBRA (<20 employees), most retiree plans, VA benefitsPenalty Details10% premium increase for each 12-month gap, permanent2025 base premium $185/month; two-year delay → $222/month (+$444/year); five-year delay → $278/month (+$1,116/year)Real-Life ExamplesMark’s individual plan delay led to a 20% penaltyDavid’s ACA delay also triggered a 20% lifetime surchargePrevention StrategiesWhen in doubt, enroll in Part B during your Initial Enrollment PeriodObtain written proof of creditable coverageIf coverage ends, use your 8-month Special Enrollment PeriodNext Up: True Story Tuesday—real beneficiary tales about unexpected Medicare traps and savings opportunities.