CMS Extends “Equitable Relief” from Part B Late Enrollment Penalties for People Moving from ACA Marketplace Plans to Medicare

CMS will continue offering “Equitable Relief” to Medicare beneficiaries who are confused about the transition from an ACA Health Insurance Exchange (Marketplace) plan to Medicare. Under Equitable Relief, people who are eligible for Medicare and have Marketplace coverage can apply to enroll in Medicare Part B without penalty. Those who have already transitioned to Medicare can request a reduction or elimination of any Part B late enrollment penalties they may have received.

While CMS still plans to phase out this Equitable Relief, eligibility has been extended through June 30, 2020. Our colleagues at the Medicare Rights Center have been leading the charge on this issue; read their press release here.

• For a detailed explanation of the assistance, eligibility criteria and steps to take to enroll in Part B or request a penalty reduction, see the CMS tip sheet at: https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Eligibility-and-Enrollment/Medicare-and-the-Marketplace/Downloads/SHIP-Navigator-Fact-Sheet-2019.pdf