One of the most common ways to apply for Medicare is through the Social Security Administration (SSA).
If you are already receiving Social Security benefits when you turn 65, you will be automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B. If you are not receiving Social Security benefits, you can apply for Medicare online, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office.
Another way to apply for Medicare is through the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) if you or your spouse worked for the railroad industry. The RRB administers Medicare for railroad workers and their families, so if you are eligible for this coverage, you can apply through the RRB website or by contacting their office directly.
If you are under 65 and have a disability, you may be eligible for Medicare through the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program. You will need to receive SSDI benefits for at least two years before you can qualify for Medicare, and you can apply for both benefits through the SSA website or by contacting their office.
In addition to these options, you can also apply for Medicare through a private insurance company that offers Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans.
These plans are approved by Medicare and provide all the same coverage as Original Medicare (Parts A and B), but they may also offer additional benefits such as prescription drug coverage, dental and vision care, and wellness programs. You can compare different Medicare Advantage plans and apply for coverage through the Medicare Plan Finder tool on the Medicare website.
Regardless of how you choose to apply for Medicare, it is important to understand the enrollment periods and deadlines to ensure that you are covered when you need it. The initial enrollment period for Medicare begins three months before your 65th birthday and ends three months after your birthday month, so it is important to apply during this time to avoid any late enrollment penalties. If you miss this initial enrollment period, you may have to wait until the general enrollment period from January 1 to March 31 each year to sign up for Medicare, and your coverage may not start until July 1.
In conclusion, there are several ways to apply for Medicare, depending on your age, disability status, and eligibility criteria. By understanding the different options available to you and enrolling in the program during the appropriate enrollment periods, you can ensure that you have access to the healthcare coverage you need as you age or if you have a disability.
Joe DeAngelis Medicare Supplement Adviser