What it is
Medicare & You is the annual handbook mailed to every Medicare household in the United States. Published by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), it explains Parts A, B, C, and D; enrollment periods; costs; preventive services; and your rights and protections. It is the single most important document CMS produces for beneficiaries.
Who should read this
- Anyone turning 65 or otherwise becoming Medicare-eligible.
- Current beneficiaries reviewing coverage during Open Enrollment.
- Family members helping a parent understand their options.
Key topics covered
Parts A, B, C, and DEnrollment periodsPreventive servicesMedigap basicsRights and appeals
Frequently asked questions
Is Medicare & You free?
Yes. CMS mails a printed copy to every Medicare household each fall, and the PDF is always free to download from Medicare.gov.
How often is it updated?
CMS publishes a new edition every year, usually in September for the following plan year.