As you approach retirement age, enrolling in Medicare is an important step in ensuring that you have access to healthcare coverage. While Medicare can be a great resource, there are a few common mistakes that people make when enrolling or using their benefits. Here are five of the biggest Medicare mistakes to avoid:

1. Failing to enroll on time One of the most common Medicare mistakes is failing to enroll on time. Most people are eligible for Medicare when they turn 65, and if you miss your initial enrollment period, you may have to pay a penalty for the rest of your life. To avoid this mistake, make sure to enroll in Medicare during your initial enrollment period, which begins three months before your 65th birthday and lasts for seven months. 2. Choosing the wrong plan There are several different Medicare plans available, and choosing the wrong one can be a costly mistake. Before enrolling, make sure to carefully review the benefits and costs of each plan to determine which one best fits your needs. You can also consult with a Medicare agent or a healthcare provider to get guidance on which plan is best for you. 3. Not reviewing your coverage annually Medicare plans can change from year to year, and failing to review your coverage annually can result in missed benefits or higher costs. Take the time to review your plan each year during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) and make any necessary changes to ensure that you have the coverage you need. 4. Not understanding the coverage gaps Even with Medicare coverage, there may be gaps in coverage that you need to be aware of. For example, Medicare does not cover dental, vision, or hearing services. To avoid unexpected expenses, make sure to understand these gaps in coverage and consider purchasing additional coverage through a Medicare Supplement plan or a Medicare Advantage plan. 5. Not taking advantage of preventive care services Medicare offers a variety of preventive care services, such as mammograms and colonoscopies, at no additional cost. Failing to take advantage of these services can lead to missed opportunities to catch and treat health issues early. Make sure to schedule regular preventive care appointments with your healthcare provider to stay on top of your health.

Avoiding these common Medicare mistakes can help you make the most of your coverage and ensure that you have access to the care you need. Enrolling on time, choosing the right plan, reviewing your coverage annually, understanding the coverage gaps, and taking advantage of preventive care services are all important steps to take when enrolling in Medicare.