Question:
I turn 65 in 2020. Do I need Medicare Part B if I am 100% service connected disabled? I live 4 miles from the VA hospital; however, I do travel. I need to sign my spouse up so she has TFL, which is a jump from $300 annually to approximately $150 monthly. If I sign up too, that’s a 12x jump in premiums.
Jim's Reply:
How much insurance we need is a very individual choice that is based on your own needs and geography. If you're close to a VA hospital, you may do just fine without Part B. Part B covers a lot of outpatient and private doctor stuff, so if you aren't near to VA you may be smart to have Part B. Travel is a different story...VA isn't on every corner and getting care when you need it is important. You'll have to weigh your finances against your needs and make a decision right for you. I know people who appear to be insurance-poor because so much goes to premiums and I know others who have so little they may as well have nothing. For what it's worth, I'm a ways from my VA health facilities and I use my Medicare Part B often enough I'm glad to have it.