How To Enroll
IN MEDICARE
How To Enroll
IN MEDICARE
STEP 1: Pick Which Option Applies to You:
“I’m turning 65 and don’t or will not have employer insurance.”
You qualify for your initial enrollment period for Medicare Parts A and/or B. This is a 7 month rolling window based on your birthday month. This period includes 3 months prior to the month you turn 65, the month of your birth and 3 months after. Please note if you were born on the 1st day of the month, your 7 month window starts a month earlier. In most cases, Medicare Part A is automatic, and you will need to sign up for Medicare Part B.
If you are already receiving Social Security, your enrollment is automatic; you do not need to apply, and you will receive a Medicare card automatically.
3 Ways to Sign-up For Your Medicare:
- Call the Social Security Office to sign-up.
- Go in to your local Social Security office.
- Go online by clicking here and following the instructions. See the How to apply for Medicare for a step-by-step guide.
*Please note: If you are going to delay your Social Security benefits and you don’t have employer coverage or a spouse that has coverage you will need to sign up for Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B. The earliest you will be able to do this is 90 days prior to your 65th birthdate. See Medicare Supplement Insurance options.
“I am past age 65 and 3 months and have had credible employer health coverage. I’m getting ready to retire or have recently retired and I only have Medicare Part A (not Medicare Part B).”
If you currently have employer health insurance (or have had it within the last 8 months), you will need to:
1. Complete a Medicare Part B application.
2. Have your employer complete the Medicare Employer Verification form.
You can do either #1 or #2:
1. Download the Medicare Part B application and the Medicare Employer Verification from below. Fill-out the Medicare Part B application and have your employer fill out the Employer Verification Form and return to you. Then fax, mail or bring them to your local Social Security Office. (link below to find Social Security office info).
OR
2. Click here to sign-up for Medicare Part B and ALSO upload the completed Medicare Employer Verification Form with this application
Don’t forget Original Medicare, the “Red, White, and Blue card” does not pay all of your hospital and doctor bills.
Medicare still leaves you with co-pays, co-insurance, deductibles, and most importantly, Medicare only covers 80% under Part B, which means you have to pay the other 20%, and that is an unlimited cost.
There are two options to choose from to help cover these costs.
Medicare Supplement + Prescription drug plan (PDP)
Medicare Supplement + Prescription drug plan (PDP)
Medicare Advantage Plan (MAPD or MA)