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5 min read

Working past 65 or leaving employer coverage

When you can delay Medicare, and how to switch when you retire.

Can I delay Medicare if I’m still working?

Often, yes. If you (or your spouse) are actively working and covered by an employer group health plan, you may be able to delay Part B without a penalty. The rules depend on employer size — generally, if the employer has 20 or more employees, the group plan pays first. Check with your employer’s benefits office.

When you stop working

When your job or employer coverage ends, you usually get a Special Enrollment Period of 8 months to sign up for Part B without a late penalty. To get a Medicare drug plan without a penalty, you generally need to join within 63 days after creditable drug coverage ends.

Watch out for COBRA and retiree coverage

  • COBRA and retiree plans are not considered coverage from current employment. Delaying Part B while on them can lead to a lifelong penalty.
  • Ask your employer for a letter confirming your coverage dates — Social Security may ask for it.

This guide is general education, not advice about a specific plan. Rules and amounts can change each year.

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