How to Apply for Medicare?
Enrolling in Medicare is different for each part. If you already receive Social Security benefits, you can get automatically enrolled in Medicare parts A and B. Other times you will have to fill out an application and sign up yourself. You can begin as early as three months before you turn 65 years old. If you decide not to enroll in Medicare when you are first eligible, you will have to wait for another enrollment period to do so. You may also face a penalty for late enrollment for some parts of Medicare depending on your circumstances.
There Are 3 Ways to Apply for Medicare:
MEDICARE OVER THE PHONE
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Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778)
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Follow the menu instructions. You will need to navigate the automated menu by saying “Medicare” and then entering identifying information about yourself such as your Social Security number
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Make an appointment for a phone interview at a convenient time.
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Prepare the necessary documents/information
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Answer the phone at your appointment time and answer all the questions
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Mail in or drop off the requested documents at the Social Security office
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Check the status of your application online
MEDICARE ONLINE
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Be sure you meet the qualifications.
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Follow the instructions on the website
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Mail in or drop off the requested documents to the Social Security office
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Check the status of your application
MEDICARE IN PERSON
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Find your local Social Security office
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Call in and make an appointment at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). This helps you avoid waiting in line, but it is not necessary
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Bring your documents
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Talk with the representative and answer their questions
