How to Enroll in Medicare

Your 65th birthday is looming ever nearer, and everyone keeps reminding you, "Don't forget to enroll in Medicare!" But do any of those people tell you how? Not only that, but do any of those people even understand Medicare?

We understand Medicare, and you will too. But first, let's get you enrolled!

There are three ways you can complete the enrollment process.

Make an Appointment with the Social Security Office

Call your local Social Security office and make an appointment if you like doing big things like this in person. They'll let you know about any documents you may need to bring and get some basic, personal information from you. 

On the day of the appointment, they'll help you complete the application and submit all the necessary paperwork.

Call the Social Security Office

You can also apply for Medicare over the phone. Call your local Social Security office or dial the toll-free number.

1-800-772-1213 (TTY dial 1-800-325-0778)

The representative you speak with will ask you all the necessary questions and submit your enrollment application.

Apply Online

If you are tech-savvy or know someone who is, you can also apply for Medicare by going online to SSA.gov. (Follow that link and click the blue button that says "Apply for Medicare Only.”) This is the fastest method and will allow you to check your application status anytime.

You'll need to create a "my Social Security" account to do this. If you don't have an account set up yet, you'll be asked a series of questions to verify your identity. For example, you may need your cell phone, credit cards, tax forms, or other personal information.

SSA.gov has a great checklist of items you'll want to have handy.

Once you have created your account, you're ready to apply. You can save your application and finish it at a later time if you need to. Just don't forget your login information!

However you choose to apply, your red, white, and blue Medicare ID card will arrive by mail approximately two weeks later. You'll receive your ID card, the "Welcome to Medicare" letter, and the "Medicare and You" booklet.

The welcome letter has excellent information about your Original Medicare (Parts A and B) coverage and costs, as well as many frequently asked questions about enrollment and other health insurance coverage options.

The booklet has more extensive information about your coverage in Parts A and B. It also discusses Medigap and Medicare Advantage plans - two ways you can get more benefits than Original Medicare offers.

Starting the enrollment process early will go a long way in making you feel more at ease. You are eligible to apply three months before your 65th birthday. Therefore, it's wise to get this done as early as possible, so you have plenty of time to explore additional coverage.

We hope this short guide has been helpful. Call us to schedule a complimentary consultation if you have additional questions or are ready to talk about supplemental coverage. Our licensed agents take the time to understand your healthcare needs and find the plans to fit them. 

Oh, and hey, we hope you have a very happy 65th birthday!