Ask Larry

I have been on disability for 6 years. My husband worked until Feb. 2023 and I was on his insurance until then. I signed up for part B when he retired. My effective date isn't until 06/2023 because that's when I turn 65. Can I have it changed to now due to not having any other insurance coverage and I can't work?

Hi. Yes, it sounds like you would probably qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) based on your health insurance coverage through your husband's employer group health plan (EGHP). What you'll need to do is submit a new or amended Part B application form CMS-40B (https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/CMS-Forms/CMS-Forms/CMS-Forms-Items/CMS017339), along with a form CMS-L564 (https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/CMS-Forms/CMS-Forms/CMS-Forms-Items/CMS009718) that's been completed by your husband's employer. On the CMS-40B, you'll need to add a remark stating the month that you want your Part B coverage to begin, and that you want your request processed as an SEP enrollment.

Best, Jerry