Making Medicare Easy.
When To Apply For Medicare
Most people become eligible and apply for Medicare at age 65. If you are still working and wish to stay on your employer’s group health insurance, then you can delay signing up for Part B until you retire in the future. Read more about Medicare and employer coverage HERE. Medicare’s enrollment periods can be based on your personal situation; however, in general, it is recommended to begin your enrollment process three months before your Medicare coverage is expected to begin. Starting the application process early is one of the best things you can do to ensure a stress-free enrollment. By starting early you get a head-start on finding your best coverage options with more than enough time to spare for paperwork submission and approval of your new coverage.
Your Initial Enrollment Period
When approaching turning 65, it’s important to know what your Initial Enrollment Period or (IEP) is. This is a seven-month period, which begins three months before the month of your 65th birthday, your birthday month, then extends for three months after your birthday month. For example, if you turn 65 on June 25th, then you can submit your enrollment paperwork as early as March 1st. Below is a chart to easily reference when your enrollment period begins and ends.
How To Apply For Medicare
Apply For Medicare Online
The most common way to apply for Medicare is an online application on the Social Security website. The application process is very easy and only takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Simply visit the Social Security website and follow the links to the application.
While you wait for your new Medicare card to arrive in the mail, our friendly licensed insurance agents can help you learn about your options when it comes to a Medicare Supplement or Advantage plan; you will be ready to enroll as soon as you receive your Medicare card.
Apply for Medicare By Phone
To apply by phone, contact Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 and let the representative know that you would like to apply for Medicare. Depending on your personal enrollment situation, they may need to mail you some forms to complete. These forms are relatively simple, but if you have any questions or would like assistance, then feel free to give us a call. We help clients with this process every day and are more then happy to guide you though the process.
Apply for Medicare By Mail
The best option for those 65+ that already have Medicare Part A, and wish to apply for Part B is completing a paper application. If this is applicable to you, and you are currently leaving credible group coverage, then there are two forms you will need to complete and mail to your local Social Security office.
These forms can be downloaded at the following links:
Application for Enrollment in Medicare Part B Form: CMS 40-B
Proof of Coverage Form: CMS-L564
Apply for Medicare In Person
Applying in person at your local Social Security office is the best option for those who are turning 65 and need to get their application processed quickly. You can find the nearest Social Security office to you by visiting the Social Securities website. When you are at the Social Security office, be sure to ask for a printed confirmation showing you have enrolled in Part A and Part B. This confirmation will allow you to complete your Medicare Supplement and/or Part D applications.
What is the next step after I apply for Medicare?
Congratulations you are one step closer to your new Medicare coverage! Because Medicare doesn’t cover all of your medical costs, submitting your Medicare application is simply the first step in the process. The next step is to identify the supplemental insurance coverage that will best fit your needs and budget. Working with an expert insurance agent can simplify this process and ensure that you don’t miss any steps along with way.
Our licensed insurance agents at Medicare Hero make shopping for Medicare coverage simple, easy and stress-free for all our clients. If you would like our assistance to help answer your questions, shop for coverage, or apply for the supplemental insurance you choose then please give us a call today at 1-(888) 321-6361 or fill out the contact form below.
Continue learning about Medicare in the next article: Compare Medicare Plans
