Retiree healthcare is one of the most time-sensitive decisions you'll make when stepping away from P&G. Here's what you need to know to avoid costly gaps—or even losing coverage.
Key takeaway
Enrollment is NOT automatic. You must take action within specific timeframes.
Not Medicare eligible?
- You can enroll in the P&G UnitedHealthcare® Retiree PPO Plan.
Medicare eligible (enroll in A&B)?
- You can enroll in the P&G UnitedHealthcare® Group Medicare Advantage Plan.
Retirement healthcare timeline
up to 90 days before 65
Enroll in Medicare (A&B)
Before Retirement or Turning 65
Submit your Medicare A&B ID card to P&G Benefit Services
30 Days or after retirement
Enroll in your P&G Retiree Healthcare through digital.alight.com/pg or call 844-786-6588
3-4 Weeks after enrollment
You'll receive your medical, dental & prescription ID cards.
4-6 weeks after retirement
You'll receive your first invoice (may include two months' premiums).
Medicare timing matters
- Medicare becomes your primary insurance on your first day as a retiree.
- Medicare must start on the 1st of the month in which you retire.
- No mid-month start dates.
EXAMPLE: Retire June 15, Medicare must start June 1.
Delaying Medicare? Know the risk
- You can stay on the PPO plan for up to 5 months.
- Claims are processed as if Medicare is primary.
- After 5 months, coverage is terminated.
NOTE: Partial coverage today can mean no coverage tomorrow.
Waiving coverage? Read this first
- You can waive coverage and enroll later.
- BUT, you must show 12 months of continuous coverage before you can re-enroll.
- Gaps in coverage may mean permanent loss of eligibility.
IMPORTANT: Waiving coverage is one of the biggest mistakes we see.
What happens if your spouse is left covered?
- Surviving spouses can remain on the plan.
- Premiums are significantly higher.
- Medicare rules still apply.
- Factor this into your income, insurance & estate plans.
NOTE: Costs often increase for the surviving spouse.
2026 monthly premiums (medical)
| MEMBER CATEGORY | NON-MEDICARE | MEDICARE-ENROLLED |
|---|---|---|
| Retiree or Spouse | $277 | $42 |
| Domestic Partner (no-tax-dependent) | $1,106 | $163 |
| Child (Under 26) or Disabled Child | $553 | $84 |
| Surviving Spouse | $1,106 | $163 |
NOTE: Premiums are billed monthly by check or automatic bank withdrawal. First invoice may include two months.
Dental (Cigna)
| MEMBER CATEGORY | COST |
|---|---|
| Single | $25/month |
| Family | $50/month |
| Domestic Partner (not tax-dependent) | +$49.01 surcharge |
- Coverage begins the 1st of the month after retirement if you enroll.
- Lifetime orthodontia maximum of $2,000 still applies.
COBRA vs. P&G Retiree Plan
| COBRA | P&G RETIREE PLAN |
|---|---|
| Up to 18 months | Lifetime coverage (if eligible) |
| Same plan as active employees | Lower, structured premiums |
| Full cost +2% admin fee | PPO or Medicare Advantage options |
| Best for short-term needs | Best for long-term needs |
- You may elect COBRA to delay enrollment in retiree healthcare—but it's typically more expensive.
Savvy tips
Start early
Begin Medicare & retiree healthcare enrollment 90 days before retirement or turning 65.
Avoid Gaps
Medicare must begin on the 1st of the month you retire.
Appeal IRMAA
You may pay less in Medicare premiums—don't leave money on the table.
Use SSDC
P&G partners with SSDC to help with Medicare enrollment. Call 1-88-729-8912 (option 5).
Actively Enroll
Enroll in your P&G Retiree Healthcare through digital.alight.com/pg or call 844-786-6588
Set Up Autopay
Avoid missed premium payments with monthly automatic withdrawals.
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