I receive a federal annuity from a deceased spouse. I will be 65 next month. I did not work enough quarters to receive social security and am not sure I would qualify because of the annuity. I have been married currently for 9 years. Can I apply for social security from my current husbands social security benefit? I also receive federal health insurance. Do I need to apply for Medicare even though I might not be eligible for social security? I understand there is a penalty if I do it later. How would having Medicare benifit me?

Hi,

Your husband needs to be drawing his Social Security benefits in order for you to qualify for spousal benefits on his record, although you could qualify for premium free Part A Medicare coverage based on his earnings history provided he is insured for benefits and at least age 62.

Whether or not to file for Medicare is a personal decision. I'm not an expert on Medicare or other health plans, so I'm really not able to advise you. You probably wouldn't necessarily need to file for Medicare if you have coverage through the Federal employee program as a survivor, since you could then simply choose to continue your current coverage. If you do sign up for Medicare, though, your federal health plan will probably waive at least some of your deductibles and co-insurance since Medicare would become primary payer in that event. Your health plan's coverage booklet should describe how the plan works in conjunction with Medicare.

Like you mentioned, a premium surcharge would likely apply if you don't sign up for Medicare at age 65 and decide to enroll later. The premium surcharge for Part B coverage is 10% for each year elapsing between age 65 and the date you sign up for coverage, and there are only certain periods during which you are allowed to enroll (https://www.medicare.gov/sign-up-change-plans/get-parts-a-and-b/when-sig...). So, you'll want to make your decision soon.

Best, Jerry