While you are employed you do not need to take any action regarding Medicare. Individuals covered by an employer-sponsored health plan are not required to apply for Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) or Part B (medical insurance).
Since Medicare Part A is provided at no cost (there is a monthly premium for Medicare Part B) individuals turning 65 can sign up for Part A if they choose to do so, at their local Social Security office or online. Your Tufts University health plan is primary while you are employed and you would not need to utilize your Medicare Part A card for benefits.
Age 65 and over employees retiring - Request for Employment Verification for Medicare Part B
Three months prior to retirement from Tufts University, we advise individuals eligible for the Tufts University Retiree Health Insurance Plan to visit their local Social Security office to apply for Medicare Part A if they haven’t already done so, and Part B.
Signing up for Part B cannot be done online (unless already enrolled in Medicare A). Medicare A & B is required to participate in the Retiree Health Plan options. TSS provides employees with a completed “Request for Employment Verification"-(Form CMS L564) which is required by Social Security to confirm your coverage in an employer sponsored health plan to avoid a premium penalty for Part B. You will also complete and bring with you to the Social Security office a Medicare Part B Enroll Form (Form CMS 40) , but there is no portion of this form that needs to be completed by TSS.
Much more information about Medicare and changes to benefits upon retirement is available by reading Considering Retirement.
