Important Retiree Notice –What to Do If You Become Eligible for Medicare

IMPORTANT RETIREE NOTICE

WHAT TO DO IF YOU BECOME ELIGIBLE FOR MEDICARE

When you or one of your dependents becomes eligible for Medicare at age 65 (and thereafter) or through special provisions of the Social Security Act for the Disabled, your first level of health benefits is provided by Medicare.  The NYC Health Benefits Program provides a second level of benefits intended to fill certain gaps in Medicare coverage.  In order to maintain maximum health benefits, it is essential that you join Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) at your local Social Security office AS SOON AS YOU BECOME ELIGIBLE.

If you do not join Medicare, you will lose whatever benefits the city would have provided.  The City of New York Health Benefits Program supplements Medicare but does not duplicate benefits available under Medicare.  Additionally, should you not elect Medicare Parts A and B, you will be charged a significant penalty at a later date should you wish to obtain Medicare benefits.  This penalty will apply each and every year in the form of a significantly higher Medicare Part B premium rate until you reach age 65.  Also, Medicare-eligibles must be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B in order to be covered by a Medicare HMO plan.  The City of New York continues to reimburse 100% of your Medicare Part B premium on an annual basis.  There is no charge for Medicare Part A.  You must provide a copy of your Medicare card and completed Medicare Reimbursement Application to the City of New York in order to receive your annual Medicare Part B reimbursement.