Medicare is scheduled to begin June 2020. Because of the Coronavirus I am putting retirement off until July 31. Can I change the date medicare will begin?

Hi,

The only way that you can delay the start date of Part A of Medicare is by filing your application later, but I assume you're referring to Part B of Medicare. The date that your Part B coverage starts depends on the type of enrollment period in which you apply.

If you apply for Part B of Medicare during your initial enrollment period (IEP), then your Part B start date depends on which month of the IEP your application is filed. For most people their IEP starts with the 3rd month prior to the month in which they reach age 65, and ends with the 3rd month after the month in which they reach age 65. If you apply during the first 3 months of your IEP, your Part B coverage starts with the month you reach age 65. If you apply in the month you reach age 65, your coverage starts the following month. If you apply in the month after the month you reach 65, your coverage starts the 3rd month after you reach 65. And, if you apply during the last 2 months of the IEP, your Part B coverage start with the first day of the 3rd month after the month in which your application is filed.

However, if you're past your IEP and you currently have health coverage through your employer, then you're likely eligible for a special enrollment period (SEP). If that's the case then you should be able to delay the start of your Part B coverage, but you'll need to do so before your coverage starts on June 1st. You may be able to simply change your month of election to start your coverage by amending the application you previously filed, or by cancelling that application and reapplying. Either way, you'll need to get in touch with Social Security to find out what action is necessary.

Best, Jerry