How to Opt Out of Medicare

Most Americans are automatically enrolled in Medicare at age 65 if they have enough working credits, meaning they earned enough income during their working years to qualify. Medicare is divided into several parts: Medicare Part A is hospital insurance, Medicare Part B is medical insurance, Part C is another name for a Medicare Advantage Plan and Medicare Part D is prescription drug coverage. Medicare Part A is free for most people, but the other plans generally come with monthly premiums and co-pays and deductibles. Medicare is not a mandatory program, however, and you can choose to opt out.

Instructions

• 1

  Wait to be enrolled in Medicare. In most cases, when you turn 65 and start receiving Social Security benefits, you will be enrolled in Medicare. Your Medicare card will be automatically mailed to you.

• 2

  Read the booklet that comes with your Medicare card. The booklet outlines your Medicare coverage, the reasons you can opt-out, and the drawbacks and potential penalties for opting out.

• 3

  Return the response card included with your Medicare card. Check the box indicating that you do not wish to enroll in Medicare.

• 4

  Visit or call your local Social Security Administration office if you do not return the card in time. You can opt out of Medicare at the office by signing a form.