At Steinlage Insurance Agency, we take a holistic, household-based approach to Medicare planning, especially when one spouse is becoming Medicare eligible before the other. Here are the key factors we evaluate:
Current Coverage for Both Spouses
- Is the younger spouse covered under the older spouse’s employer plan?
- Will that coverage continue after Medicare enrollment or retirement?
- Age Gap & Timing
- How many years until the younger spouse becomes Medicare eligible?
- Will the younger spouse need individual ACA coverage or COBRA in the interim?
Employer Group Plan vs. Medicare
- Is it more cost-effective for the older spouse to remain on the group plan, or transition to Medicare?
- What is the cost to continue employer coverage for the younger, non-Medicare spouse?
HSA Contributions
- If the older spouse has an HSA, how will Medicare enrollment impact contributions?
- Do we need to coordinate a stop date for HSA deposits?
Prescription Drug Needs
- Are both spouses on medications that could impact the selection of Part D or Medicare Advantage plans?
- Can drug savings strategies like GoodRx or Mark Cuban’s Cost Plus help either spouse?
Household Budget
- What is the total out-of-pocket cost when comparing current coverage vs. Medicare + ACA/COBRA for the younger spouse?
- Are there IRMAA considerations that impact total Medicare costs?
Long-Term Strategy
- What’s the plan when the younger spouse becomes eligible?
- Will both spouses eventually align coverage under Medicare Supplement or Advantage plans?
We don’t just help the Medicare-eligible spouse. We help the entire household make smart, coordinated decisions.
Contact Steinlage Insurance Agency for a personalized consultation that supports both your healthcare and financial planning goals.
