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If you\u2019re nearing retirement age, you\u2019re probably feeling excited about the transition, but might also feel apprehensive.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n While these years afford more freedom to enjoy your interests, they also come with a potentially confusing shift to Medicare insurance from<\/span> Social Security<\/a> is not medical insurance. This is a government program you pay into throughout your working life so that you have access to a monthly retirement stipend and a few other benefits. Social Security may also provide disability benefits to you or family members in certain circumstances.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Unlike Medicare, you cannot choose from different types of Social Security plans; the benefits are standard for all retirees unless there are special circumstances (e.g., a disability). This makes Social Security a little more cut and dry, which is why it\u2019s generally easier to navigate than Medicare.<\/span><\/p>\n Conversely, Medicare takes the place of private insurance or Medicaid after you hit retirement age (between ages 65 to 67, depending on when you were born)\u2014and it\u2019s a bit more complicated. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services provides funds for health services such as hospitalizations and doctors\u2019 visits, as well as prescription drugs and long-term care.<\/span><\/p>\n
\n<\/span>individual health insurance<\/a>. You\u2019ll also start to collect Social Security. So what, exactly, is the difference between the two programs?<\/span><\/p>\nWhat Social Security Covers<\/span><\/h2>\n
What Medicare Covers<\/span><\/h2>\n