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Part B Penalty Estimator
If you delay Part B without qualifying for a Special Enrollment Period or another exception, a penalty may apply: 10% for each full 12-month period you could have had Part B. It generally lasts as long as you have Part B. Creditable drug coverage alone is not a Part B exception.
How it adds up
Example: three full years of delay without a qualifying exception can add 30% of the standard Part B premium. Group health coverage based on current employment may qualify you for a Special Enrollment Period. COBRA and retiree coverage do not extend that enrollment window.
Questions, answered
How do I avoid the Part B penalty?
Enroll when first eligible, or confirm that you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period or another exception. The usual employment-based window lasts 8 months after employment or group health coverage ends, whichever happens first. Check your deadline with Medicare or Social Security.
Does COBRA extend my Part B enrollment deadline?
No. COBRA does not extend the usual 8-month Part B Special Enrollment Period. That period generally starts when you stop working or lose your job-based group health coverage, whichever happens first, even if you elect COBRA. Confirm the exact deadline with Social Security or Medicare; other exceptions may have different rules.
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