What To Expect After You Enroll in Medicare

Congratulations! You’ve officially completed your Medicare enrollment and secured your health coverage. The hard work is done! Now that your Medicare plan is active, it’s important to understand what happens next so you can make the most of your Medicare benefits.

Step 1: Part A and Part B Enrollment Confirmation

Clients who enroll through a licensed Plan Medicare agent receive step-by-step communication updates.
Once your Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C), Medicare Supplement, or Part D plan is accepted, you’ll receive an email confirmation directly from Plan Medicare.

Within 7–10 business days, you’ll begin receiving essential mail from your insurance carrier, not from Plan Medicare.

Step 2: What to Expect in the Mail

Welcome Kit

Each carrier’s Welcome Kit is slightly different, but you can expect documents detailing your Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Medicare Part B (medical insurance), along with billing information, Value-Added Services, and available coverage options. It will also include details about copays, coinsurance, and deductibles.

Automatic Payment Authorization Form

To pay your monthly premium automatically, complete and return the authorization form provided in your kit to your insurance company. This helps you manage Medicare costs efficiently and avoid missed payments.

Medicare Card and ID Card

Your red-white-and-blue Medicare card will arrive separately from your carrier’s ID card. Keep both in a safe place. Your Medicare card confirms your Part A and Part B coverage, while your carrier ID card is used when visiting health care providers or pharmacies.

Coupon Booklet

Some insurers include a coupon booklet offering discounts to retirees at selected retailers and pharmacies.

Formulary and Provider Directory

If you enrolled in a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan or a Part C (Medicare Advantage) plan, you may request a formulary (list of covered drugs and drug costs) and a directory (list of in-network doctors and facilities). Contact your carrier directly for these documents.

Step 3: Ongoing Plan Communications

Your Medicare Advantage plan or Part D plan carrier may send newsletters or required updates about preventive services, coverage changes, or new health care programs.
If you ever receive mail you’re unsure about, reach out to your Plan Medicare agent for clarification.

Your Medicare coverage combines Original Medicare (Parts A and B) with your chosen private insurance plan. You can verify information anytime at Medicare.gov or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY 877-486-2048).

Step 4: Annual Notice of Change and Rate Notifications

Each fall, your carrier mails an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) or Evidence of Coverage (EOC) document. These outline updates to Medicare Part B premiums, deductibles, and overall coverage options for the coming year.

This is the ideal time to review Medicare plans, check your prescription drug coverage, and compare potential savings.
Changes can typically be made during the Open Enrollment Period, Initial Enrollment Period (IEP), General Enrollment Period (GEP), or a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) if you qualify—such as after leaving current employer coverage or relocating.

Step 5: Plan Review Kit and Year-End Updates

Toward the end of the year, most carriers send a Plan Review Kit that summarizes your coverage starts, benefits, and health plan details. You may also receive legally required mailings about Medicaid, TRICARE, or other medical insurance updates.

If you missed your IEP, you may face a late enrollment penalty, so confirm your eligibility with the Social Security Administration or Railroad Retirement Board to avoid delays in retirement benefits.

Step 6: Coordination of Benefits

If you’re moving from an employer plan or retiree coverage, confirm that Medicare is listed as your primary health insurance.
Call Benefits Coordination at 1-855-798-2627 to verify. Sometimes current employer insurance remains primary even after your Medicare Part B begins, which can create claim issues.

Step 7: Explore Additional Coverage Options

Now that you’re enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B, consider additional products that can complement your Medicare coverage and protect against out-of-pocket costs. Plan Medicare offers:

• Dental Insurance
• Long-Term Care Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Annuities
• Social Security Planning

These solutions can help manage future home health care expenses, supplement Medigap or Medicare Advantage coverage, and strengthen your retirement plan.

Step 8: Stay Informed and Supported

For personalized guidance on Part B coverage, Part D drug plans, or health insurance questions, contact your local Plan Medicare agent.

Thank you for choosing Plan Medicare as your trusted advisor. Our mission is to help you maximize your Medicare benefits, minimize out-of-pocket costs, and enjoy a secure, confident retirement.

You can read more about our additional services here.