This article is for employees and admins who want to understand how Medicare relates to their Gusto benefits.
Most people know Medicare as health coverage for people 65 and older. But it also covers younger people with certain disabilities and diseases.
If your company has Gusto-brokered health insurance, we send Medicare Part D notices to employees in October.
We do not offer services related to Medicare. Employees are responsible for their own coverage. Go to Medicare.gov to learn about Medicare coverage types, how to enroll, and more.
If your company offers health insurance through Gusto, here are answers to common questions about how employer-sponsored coverage and Medicare work together.
Q: Can employees enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B waive their employer-sponsored medical coverage while keeping their dependents enrolled?
A: For Gusto-managed benefits, an employee must stay enrolled for their dependents to stay enrolled under the same plan.
Q: Can I drop my group health insurance when I’m eligible for Medicare?
A: Yes. Getting new coverage, like Medicare, typically counts as a qualifying life event (QLE). A QLE is a reason your insurance carrier accepts to change your benefits outside of open enrollment. Learn more about QLEs and how to change your benefits with Gusto.
Q: What does Gusto help with when it comes to Medicare?
A: We do not offer services related to Medicare. This includes notices for people nearing 65, help figuring out primary and secondary payers for healthcare, or help coordinating benefits with Medicare Parts A and B. Medicare has a tool to help you figure out which pays first.
To get help with Medicare questions, talk to a Medicare representative or licensed Medicare broker.
Q: How do I learn more about Medicare?
A: Medicare offers online tools and one-on-one help to find the right plan for your needs and budget.
Online resources:
“Medicare & You” Handbook: Your complete guide to understanding Medicare
Social Security Administration (SSA): Get answers about Medicare and Social Security.
Medicare Plan Compare: Explore your Medicare coverage options.
Phone:
SSA: 1-800-772-1213. Teletypewriter (TTY) for deaf or hard-of-hearing callers: 1-800-325-0778
Available Monday through Friday, 8am–7pm local time
Medicare: 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY: 1-877-486-204