TOPIC: Social Security.
Myth: Many people think that a firefighter spouse’s Social Security worker benefit will not be paid because they are the spouse of a firefighter. This is patently false; the worker will always receive their own benefit.
TOPIC: Healthcare.
Myth: If a retired firefighter or paramedic dies, their family will receive healthcare benefits.
False, they will not continue to receive firefighter healthcare benefits.
TOPIC: Medicare
Myth: One of the “Medicare Myths” we often encounter is people think when they turn age 65 they will be automatically enrolled in Medicare and will not have to pay anything, since they have paid into it through working their whole life.
False. Enrollment is only automatic if you are already drawing your Social Security. If not, you need to enroll in the 3 month period before the month of your 65th birthday.
False. Part A has no premium, but Part B carries a monthly premium that increases yearly, and is $170.50 in 2022. Beyond this, Medicare only pays 80% after deductibles and co-pays and does not cover prescriptions drugs. Most people purchase an additional supplemental and Part D plan or a Medicare Advantage plan.