# Medicare Mistakes Retirees Make

> Retirees often make costly Medicare errors: avoid 5 common pitfalls with this guide.
- Title: Medicare Mistakes Retirees Make · Kiplinger | Shortify
- Summary: Retirees often make costly Medicare errors: avoid 5 common pitfalls with this guide. Retirees should file for Medicare at the right time, confirm health…
- Keywords: medicare, retirees, medicare part a, medicare part b, medigap, medicare advantage, irmaa, social security, Mistakes, Make, Kiplinger
- Source: Kiplinger — https://kiplinger.com/retirement/medicare/medicare-mistakes-to-avoid
- Published: 2026-10-15T14:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 2 min
- Topics: medicare, retirees, medicare part a, medicare part b, medigap, medicare advantage, irmaa, social security
## Medicare feels automatic
Many retirees assume Medicare enrollment is automatic but this often leads to overlooking other coverage needs.
## Employer coverage confusion
Retiree health insurance and COBRA plans do not count as current employer coverage that allows delaying Part B enrollment.
## Medicare parts explained
Medicare Part A covers hospital care, Part B covers doctor visits, and Medigap helps pay gaps in coverage.
## IRMAA surcharges
High past income can cause Medicare Part B premiums to double through IRMAA surcharges, affecting retirees two years later.
## Annual plan re-evaluation
Medicare Advantage and drug plans change yearly, requiring re-evaluation during open enrollment to avoid costly gaps.
## Medicare enrollment timing
Enroll for Medicare at the right time to avoid gaps in coverage and ensure all parts are properly coordinated.
## Health insurance coordination
Confirm how current health insurance coordinates with Medicare to avoid gaps in coverage or unnecessary costs.
## Medicare Part B costs
Medicare Part B costs $202.90 a month, often surprising retirees who expect it to be free.
## IRMAA appeal process
Retirees can appeal IRMAA surcharges through Social Security, with 'work stoppage' events like retirement reducing premiums.
## Medigap coverage details
Medigap covers costs Medicare doesn't fully pay, such as deductibles and copays for hospital and doctor visits.
## Medicare Advantage options
Medicare Advantage plans bundle Part A, Part B, and often Part D coverage through private insurers with low or $0 monthly premiums.
## Annual re-evaluation
Re-evaluate Medicare Advantage and drug plans each year during open enrollment to find better options.
## Income impact on premiums
Past income can affect current Medicare costs through IRMAA surcharges, requiring careful review of financial decisions.
## Social Security connection
Retirement decisions impact Medicare costs, with Social Security considering events like retirement when adjusting premiums.
## Five-step retirement plan
Follow five steps to avoid Medicare mistakes: file at right time, confirm insurance coordination, learn parts, check income impacts, re-evaluate plans annually.
## Key takeaway

Retirees should file for Medicare at the right time, confirm health insurance coordination, understand Medicare parts, check past income impacts, and re-evaluate plans annually to avoid costly mistakes.