Q. I have been retired under Social Security disability since 2000. I declined Part B because of federal insurance. My Postal Service disability turned over to regular pension at age 62. I am now 64. According to new law, I am eligible for regular Social Security at age 66. Will my federal Blue Cross/Blue Shield continue until age 66, or does it end at age 65? And do benefits change at all? Do I then have to apply for Part B at 65, or do I wait to apply at 66? And do I have to pay a penalty for all of those years I didn’t apply while on BC/BS? Everywhere says apply for Part B at age 65, but does that apply even though I am eligible for regular Social Security at age 66?
A. Your Federal Employees Health Benefits program coverage will continue as long as you keep paying the premiums. In your case, I assume that you are doing that through deductions from your annuity. Whether you decide to enroll in Medicare Part B is up to you. You’ll first become eligible for Part B when you reach age 65. The law covering Part B is separate from the one that determines your eligibility for a Social Security benefit.
