Medicare Part B Requirement?
I have heard that ALL US citizens need to enroll in Medicare Part B by March 31, 2015, or face penalties (higher rates when you sign up later). I can’t phone from my overseas location and, thus, I need to reach Obama Care/ the ACA by e-mail. Medicare Part B cannot be used at my overseas location. I was originally told that the penalty in increased rates (+10% per each 12-month period of non-enrollment) would not apply to me as long as I continued to reside overseas. Now I hear a differently. I would like to discuss this by e-mail with someone. I cannot call to the USA from my location overseas and e-mail is the only means of communication.
Answer
Only those over 65 with access to Medicare need to enroll in Medicare. Your monthly premium for Part B may go up 10% for each full 12-month period that you could have had Part B, but didn't sign up for it. You don't owe a fee, but can pay an increased premium when you do sign up. This is because your premium is based on the idea you'll start paying in when you turn 65, if you don't, you'll make up for it later via the penalty.
For those under 65, this isn't true. You'll only owe the fee if you are residing in the us for more than 330 days a year.
Learn more about the Part B premium and late fee.
Learn about how to enroll in Part B.