As more Americans choose to work past traditional retirement age, understanding how Medicare interacts with employment is increasingly important. In South Florida – a region with one of the highest populations of older adults in the country – this issue affects thousands of residents navigating both healthcare and career paths beyond age 65. With 2025 bringing new considerations and ongoing updates in Medicare policy, it’s vital for older workers to stay informed about their options.
Medicare Eligibility Basics
Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for people aged 65 and older, though some younger individuals with certain disabilities also qualify. It is divided into several parts:
- Part A (Hospital Insurance): Generally premium-free if you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years.
- Part B (Medical Insurance): Covers doctor visits and outpatient care; has a monthly premium.
- Part C (Medicare Advantage): An alternative to Original Medicare offered through private insurers.
- Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage): Also provided by private insurers.
Working Past 65: What Changes?
If you’re working past 65 in South Florida—whether full-time or part-time—your Medicare decisions will depend largely on your employer’s health insurance plan.
1. Small vs. Large Employer Coverage
- Small employer (fewer than 20 employees): Medicare is usually your primary insurance. You generally must enroll in Medicare Part A and Part B when eligible to avoid gaps in coverage.
- Large employer (20 or more employees): Employer coverage remains primary, and Medicare is secondary. You can delay Part B without penalty if you’re still covered under your employer’s plan.
2. Delaying Medicare Enrollment
If you have credible employer coverage, you can delay Medicare Part B and avoid paying its premiums until you retire or lose your employer coverage. This is common among professionals and business owners in areas like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach who continue working beyond 65.
3. COBRA and Retiree Coverage
If you retire and take COBRA or retiree health coverage, Medicare becomes your primary insurance. Failing to sign up for Medicare on time in this scenario can result in late enrollment penalties.
Special Enrollment Period (SEP)
South Florida workers over 65 who delay enrolling in Medicare because they’re covered by employer insurance qualify for a Special Enrollment Period when they retire. This period lasts 8 months from the end of employment or the end of group health coverage—whichever comes first. During this time, you can enroll in Part B without a penalty.
Medicare Advantage and South Florida’s Market
In 2025, South Florida continues to see a robust Medicare Advantage market, with plans offering enhanced benefits like dental, vision, and fitness memberships. Many seniors who transition from employer insurance to Medicare opt for these plans due to competitive pricing and additional perks.
Key Considerations in 2025
- Monthly Part B Premium: In 2025, the standard premium is around $174.70, though it may be higher based on income.
- HSA Contributions: If you’re enrolled in any part of Medicare, you can no longer contribute to a Health Savings Account (HSA).
- Coordination of Benefits: South Florida employers are increasingly offering Medicare coordination resources to help older employees understand how benefits work together.
Conclusion
For South Florida residents working past 65 in 2025, navigating Medicare while remaining employed is more than just a bureaucratic task — it’s a strategic decision that affects both your financial well-being and access to quality healthcare. The region’s diverse workforce includes retirees returning to part-time jobs, professionals extending their careers, and entrepreneurs running businesses well into their seventies. No matter your reason for staying employed, understanding how Medicare interacts with your current coverage can help you avoid costly penalties, minimize gaps in coverage, and potentially save thousands of dollars over time.
Additionally, South Florida’s unique healthcare landscape—home to a broad range of Medicare Advantage plans, specialists familiar with aging populations, and bilingual resources—means older adults here have more choices than ever. But with choice comes complexity. Many employers offer resources to help, but ultimately the responsibility rests on the individual to stay informed and act during critical enrollment windows, such as the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) and the Special Enrollment Period (SEP) after retirement.
In a time when the average retirement age is steadily rising and healthcare costs continue to shift, making the right Medicare decisions while working can provide long-term peace of mind. Whether you’re seeking stability in coverage, looking to transition to Medicare Advantage for added benefits, or simply want to maintain your HSA while still eligible, early planning is essential.
Take the time to evaluate your personal situation, speak with licensed Medicare professionals, and review your employer’s benefit policies carefully. Doing so ensures that your healthcare coverage keeps pace with your lifestyle—so you can focus more on your career, family, and quality of life in the vibrant communities of South Florida.
