If husband and wife are the police, and the husband retires, he may go on his wife’s policy or visa versa, to save money. However, when he, or the one that was riding on the others policy turns 65, they must apply for their own policy. This should be done at least 60 to 90 days before the 65th birthday.
The only exception to this rule is if the current policy holder is covered by the CITY through the labor contract until the age of 65.
It takes 30 to 90 days for the city to transfer the information, so you are without immediate coverage during that time. IF you incur expenses at during that period you will have to file for reimbursement on your own.
Also take note, when you currently CALL the Benefit Management office on State street, you are actually speaking to someone in Georgia. If you go down there in person you would have the opportunity to speak with a human being. The City privatized Benefit Management a few years ago but that is a secret.
Also, Medicare goes into effect on the 1st day of the month that you turn 65, so beware and make plans ahead of time.
Don Januszyk