You need to enroll in Medicare on time or you could face penalties. The appropriate steps you need to take to enroll in Medicare on time will differ depending upon whether or not you already collect Social Security retirement benefits when you turn 65 or not.
If you already receive Social Security benefits when you turn 65, the federal government will automatically enroll you in Medicare. You should not need to sign up for Medicare and your Medicare will start on the first of the month that you turn 65.
However on the other hand, if you do not already receive Social Security benefits when you turn 65, you must to apply for Medicare yourself. To avoid penalties, you must enroll during your Initial Enrollment Period. Your Initial Enrollment Period includes the three months before your 65th birthday, the month of your 65th birthday, and the three months following your 65th birthday. If you enroll in Medicare during this seven month period, you can avoid late enrollment penalties and gaps in health insurance coverage.
The date your Medicare coverage begins depends on when you enroll during your Initial Enrollment Period. For your coverage to begin as soon as possible, it is best to enroll in the first three months of your Initial Enrollment Period (that is the three months before the month you turn 65). Your Medicare coverage will then go into effect starting the first day of the month you turn 65. If you enroll during the month you turn 65, your Medicare coverage will go into effect the following month. If you enroll during the fifth month of your Initial Enrollment Period, your Medicare coverage begins two months after you enroll. If you enroll during the sixth or seventh month of your Initial Enrollment Period, your coverage begins three months after you enroll.
To enroll in Medicare, you can call the Social Security Administration at (800) 772-1213, or you can enroll online, or you can visit your local Social Security office.
When you enroll in Medicare (either actively during your Initial Enrollment Period or automatically), you receive Medicare Parts A and B. Most people do not pay a premium for Part A, but almost all people owe a premium for Part B. That Part B premium can be deducted directly from your Social Security benefits if you already receive them.
Click link below to read more about enrolling in another related blog post:
Note: Medicare Insurance information can be overwhelming and confusing to many people. As an independent licensed agent I can explain things to you in simple terms so you feel comfortable making a decision. Then I can help you choose and enroll in a plan that you feel fits your needs.
By the way, it doesn’t cost you any more if you enroll in a Medicare Insurance plan through me as an independent agent versus directly with an insurance company either over the phone or via the Internet, since I get paid by the insurance companies for your enrollment. Plus you will have personalized service by a local agent. If you would like my assistance, please call me at 941-404-5334.
By calling this number, I understand I will be directed to a licensed insurance sales agent.