<body><div><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=29826s_1D5H0DRG00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=29826s_1D5H0DRG00" width="900" height="506" ></figure>Honolulu (KHON2) – Turning 65 is a major milestone—and it’s also the time to start thinking about Medicare. According to Medicare Advantage and Supplement Consultant Mark Faildo of Premier Benefit Consultants, many people are unsure when to enroll, how to apply, and how to avoid costly mistakes.One of the biggest misconceptions is that everyone must apply for Medicare exactly three months before turning 65. Faildo explains that’s not the case. Most people can apply beginning three months before their 65th birthday month, while those born on the first day of the month may be eligible to apply up to four months early. This period is known as the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP).For those already collecting Social Security benefits, Medicare enrollment is automatic, and a Medicare card is mailed before coverage begins. However, individuals not receiving Social Security must actively enroll through the Social Security Administration online, by phone, or in person.Faildo also warns about Medicare penalties, which can occur if someone goes without Medicare or qualifying employer-sponsored health coverage after becoming eligible. These penalties can apply to both medical and prescription drug coverage and are typically permanent.He shared the example of a retiree who chose COBRA coverage instead of Medicare after leaving work at age 65. Because COBRA is not considered active employer coverage for Medicare purposes, the individual later incurred lifetime Medicare penalties.To help Hawaiʻi residents better understand their options, Premier Benefit Consultants hosts free Medicare and Social Security educational seminars on the last Saturday of every month.You can stop by Dave &amp; Buster’s in Ala Moana Center. Doors open at 8:30 a.m., with presentations running from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m. The seminars are informational only, with no obligation to enroll.To learn more about upcoming seminars or for more information, visit their website.</div></body>

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Honolulu (KHON2) – Turning 65 is a major milestone—and it’s also the time to start thinking about Medicare. According to Medicare Advantage and Supplement Consultant Mark Faildo of Premier Benefit Consultants, many people are unsure when to enroll, how to apply, and how to avoid costly mistakes.

Navigating Medicare: Avoid costly mistakes and penalties

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