What happens when my spouse or I turn 65?

Retirees or spouses turning 65 on or before January 1, 2025
You will be automatically enrolled in our Signature 65 Medicare Complement coverage, in which Medicare Part A is required and Medicare Part B may be required. Required enrollment in Medicare Part B depends upon your retirement date and bargaining unit participation. Approximately two to three months prior to the month in which you turn 65, the Central Benefits Office will send you an email, if one is on file, or a letter including the following information:

• Effective date that Signature 65 Medicare Complement coverage starts;
• Your new monthly premium (if applicable);
• Your new group number;
• Information on the discount prescription drug program;
• Medicare benefits summary;

Note: On January 1, 2025, all Medicare-eligible retirees and spouses/dependents will be transitioned to the customized Highmark Blue Shield Freedom Blue PPO Medicare Advantage Plan. Please click here for details on this plan. 

Retirees or spouse/dependents turning 65 after January 1, 2025.
You must enroll in Medicare Parts A and B, immediately upon becoming eligible. You will be automatically enrolled in the customized Highmark Blue Shield Freedom Blue PPO Medicare Advantage Plan. Approximately two to three months prior to the month in which you turn 65, the retiree benefits office will send you an email, if one is on file or a letter including the following information:

• Effective date that Freedom Blue PPO Medicare Advantage coverages starts;
• Your new monthly premium (if applicable);
• Your new group number

Once received from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), please send us a copy of your Medicare ID card confirming your enrollment in both Medicare Parts A and B.

For more information on the Freedom Blue PPO Medicare Advantage Plan, click here.

 

What if I turn 65 and my spouse is under 65 (or, if my spouse turns 65 before me)?

Only the person turning 65 will be moved to the Signature 65 plan. Anyone under 65 will remain in their current plan until they become eligible for Medicare.