
Can I Have Medicare and Employer Coverage
Still working at 65? Or on your spouse’s plan?
You might not need to give up your job-based insurance just yet—but ignoring Medicare altogether can lead to expensive mistakes.
The Problem
Medicare and employer coverage don’t always play nicely together.
And if you assume “my job covers me, I’m fine,” you could:
🚫 Miss your Medicare enrollment window
💰 Get hit with late penalties
🏥 End up paying for claims your employer plan won’t cover
Most people don’t realize that the size of your employer (or your spouse’s) and who pays first makes all the difference.
The Guide
At Mere, we’ve helped thousands of people understand how Medicare and employer insurance can work together—or against you.
Whether you want to keep your group coverage, transition slowly, or just avoid penalties, we’re here to make it simple.
The Plan: Know Your Options and Pitfalls
Step 1: Determine the Size of the Employer
20+ employees: Your employer plan is primary, and you may choose to delay Medicare Part B and D without penalty.
Fewer than 20 employees: Medicare becomes primary. If you don’t enroll, your job plan may refuse to pay—and you’ll be on the hook.
Not sure about your employer size or coverage status? We’ll help you find out.
Step 2: Know the Rules for HSAs
If you’re contributing to a Health Savings Account (HSA):
You must delay Medicare Part A and B to continue contributions.
Once enrolled in any part of Medicare, you can no longer fund your HSA.
Step 3: Understand Coordination of Benefits
Medicare and employer plans coordinate—but someone always pays first.
The “secondary” plan may not cover anything Medicare doesn’t approve.
If you skip Medicare when required, you could be left with huge uncovered costs.
Real Story: Avoiding a $5,000 Surprise
Frank from Jacksonville turned 65 while still working for a small business with 10 employees. He assumed his job insurance was enough.
After a major outpatient surgery, his group plan denied the claim—because Medicare should have been primary.
We helped him get back on track, but he had to pay a penalty for late enrollment and cover thousands in medical bills.
“I wish I had called you before my birthday.” — Frank
The Success You Want
With the right guidance, you can:
Combine your employer plan and Medicare without penalty
Maximize your benefits while working
Avoid surprise gaps in coverage
Time your transition to retirement with confidence
Your Next Step
Don’t leave this to chance. We’ll help you figure out if and when you should enroll in Medicare—even if you’re still working or covered under a spouse.
Visit www.merebenefits.com/medicare or call our office to schedule a no-cost Medicare strategy session.
We’ll help you avoid costly missteps—and feel in control of your options.
#simplyforyourbenefit
Trusted Medicare support for working adults and spouses in Jacksonville and Northeast Florida