Q. I am currently obtaining my health care benefits through the VA (disabled vet). I will be 65 years old in May. When I turn 65, I understand that I will fall under Medicare. I will then be eligible for Medicare Part A. Will I also be eligible for Part B? Also, if eligible for Part B, will I have to pay for this benefit? What do I have to do to be eligible for both part A and part B without having to pay premiums for Part B? If I hold off applying for Social Security until age 66, will I still be eligible for Part A and B?
A. You will automatically be eligible for Medicare Part A at no cost to yourself. You already paid for that coverage through payroll deductions. On the other hand, if you enroll in Medicare Part B, you’ll have to pay the premiums. There aren’t any exceptions to that requirement.
