How to Get Medicare Coverage
Turning 65? Navigating Medicare for the first time can feel overwhelming, but getting started is simpler than it seems.
The most important first step is understanding your eligibility and enrolling at the right time.
How to Know if You are Eligible for Medicare
For most people, Medicare eligibility begins at age 65. However, you may qualify earlier if you have certain disabilities or specific medical conditions, like ALS or End – Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). Knowing whether you meet the requirements is the foundation of the entire process, so it’s important to confirm your eligibility before moving forward.
Apply for Medicare During Open Enrollment: What You Need to Know
Once you know you’re eligible, you need to know when you can enroll. This period is called the Initial Enrollment Period. It lasts for seven months, beginning 3 months before your 65th birthday, your birth month, and 3 months after your birthday. Enrolling during this timeframe is essential. Missing it could result in late penalties or coverage gaps, which can be costly and stressful.
Are You Automatically Enrolled in Medicare?
Some people don’t need to take action. If you’re already receiving Social Security or disability benefits, you’ll typically be enrolled in Medicare automatically on the first day of the month that you turn 65. In that case, your coverage information will be mailed to you 3 months prior to turning 65, and you will be covered.,If you’re not receiving benefits yet, you’ll need to sign up on your own.
If you need to enroll manually, you have a few options:
- Apply online at the official Social Security Administration website.
- By phone, by calling 1-800-772-1213.
- Or by visiting a Social Security office in person.
* Applying online is usually the fastest and most convenient method.
After enrolling, you’ll decide how you want to receive your coverage. This includes choosing between Original Medicare and other plan options, as well as deciding whether you need additional coverage, such as a prescription drug plan. The options are:
· Original Medicare (Parts A & B): Hospital stays and doctor visits
· Or a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C): Combines A & B, may include vision, dental, and hearing
Optional prescription drug coverage (Part D): Covers Prescription medications