Summary: The first step to receiving Medicare benefits is to enroll in the health insurance program. We break down the three ways you can enroll and the enrollment process timeline. Estimated Read Time: 5 min
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When you are new to Medicare, you probably have questions regarding when and how to apply for Medicare. Understanding when to sign up for Medicare and knowing the proper way to enroll in Medicare coverage is essential. Below, we review all avenues of applying for Medicare and outline the steps you should take for a successful Medicare enrollment.
How to Apply for Medicare
Many factors determine when you can apply and sign up for Medicare. For most, the Medicare sign-up process is straightforward. The first time you can apply for Medicare is when you turn 65. However, there are instances where you can become eligible for Medicare before age 65.
Signing up for Medicare is simple. Three months before the month of your 65th birthday, your initial enrollment window will open. This initial enrollment period lasts through your birthday month and ends on the last day of the third month following.
In total, your initial enrollment period lasts seven full months. This is a once-in-a-lifetime enrollment window that you do not want to miss.
If, for any reason, you happen to miss it, there are other opportunities to enroll. Keep in mind that no part of Medicare is mandatory. However, if you do not sign up when you are first eligible, you could incur Medicare late enrollment penalties when you eventually sign up. The only way around the late enrollment penalties that result from delaying Medicare enrollment is to have creditable coverage.
Listen to this Podcast Episode Now!Sign Up for Medicare Part A
Upon turning 65, if you are collecting Social Security benefits, you will automatically enroll in Medicare Part A. Additionally, if you are under 65 and have received Social Security Disability benefits for at least 24 months, you will be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A coverage.
However, if you are not automatically enrolled, you will need to take the steps to enroll yourself in coverage. The best time to enroll in Medicare Part A benefits is during your Initial Enrollment Period. For most, Medicare Part A is premium free once you become eligible. If you worked a minimum of ten years while paying Medicare taxes in the United States, you can receive Medicare Part A premium-free.
Keep in mind Medicare Part A works with other insurance, so even if you are already covered by a group or employer plan, Medicare Part A may be able to help cover additional benefits. So, regardless of whether you are still working when you become eligible for Medicare, it makes sense to enroll in Medicare Part A as soon as possible. This will help keep your out-of-pocket hospital inpatient costs to a minimum.
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Sign Up for Medicare Part B
Once you become eligible for Medicare Part B, you may be automatically enrolled or have to complete an application for coverage. If you are receiving Social Security benefits at the time you become eligible for Part B, you will automatically be enrolled. But if not, you will need to enroll yourself in coverage.
However, you do have the option to delay Medicare Part B benefits without penalty if you have credible coverage in place.
If you are covered by credible insurance when you become eligible for Medicare Part B, it is not uncommon to delay your Medicare benefits until you lose your credible coverage. This is because Medicare Part B medical insurance requires every beneficiary to pay a monthly premium.
Common reasons beneficiaries delay Medicare Part B include:
- Health insurance through a previous employer (such as COBRA or retiree health insurance)
- To remain with spousal coverage, if available, as Medicare Part B premiums are based on income reported two years prior (IRMAA)
- Union coverage
- Employer coverage
How to Apply for Medicare Part A and B
Applying for Medicare Part A and Part B is easier than ever. Once you meet eligibility requirements, you are ready to choose from a variety of Medicare Part A and Part B plans in which to enroll. As we mentioned, some beneficiaries can receive automatic enrollment, and some must apply manually.
There are three ways to apply for Medicare Part A and Part B:
By Phone
You can call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213, Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM, to begin the process of enrolling in Medicare. You will need to tell the representative that you are calling to enroll in Medicare Part A and Part B (Original Medicare). From there, you will be instructed on how to complete your application. You may be required to provide documentation to prove your eligibility as well as a valid ID to confirm your identity and residence.
Online
Applying for Original Medicare online is one of the easiest ways to enroll in coverage. To apply online, you will need to fill out an online application at SSA.gov. From there, you will be prompted to submit your documentation and complete the necessary fields on the online application. If done correctly, your next step should be to receive your red, white, and blue card in the mail within a few weeks.
In Person
Before visiting your local Social Security Administration office, you should find out if they require an appointment for in-person visits. Once you arrive, you will be helped by a representative who will walk you through the application process step-by-step. Once your application is complete and you have shown all required documents, you should receive your card in 3-4 weeks, depending on processing times.
If you have previously been a railroad employee, you can enroll in Medicare by contacting the Railroad Retirement Board, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM at 1-877-772-5772.
Medicare applications generally take between 30-60 days to obtain approval.
What Documents Are Needed to Apply for Medicare?
To begin the application process for Medicare Part A and Part B, you will need to ensure you have the following documentation to verify your identity:
- A copy of your birth certificate
- Your driver’s license or state I.D. card
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or proof of legal residency
You may need additional documents as well. Make sure to have the following on hand:
- Your Social Security card
- W-2 forms, if still active in employment
- Military discharge documents if you previously served in the U.S. military before 1968
- Information about current health insurance types and coverage dates
If you are already enrolled in Medicare Part A and have chosen to delay enrollment in Medicare Part B, you must complete the additional forms (listed below).
- 40B form: This allows you to apply for enrollment into Medicare Part B only. The 40B form must be included in your online application or mailed directly to the Social Security office.
- L564 form: Your employer must complete this form if you delayed Medicare Part B due to creditable group coverage through said employer. You must also include the completed L564 form in your online application or mail it directly to the Social Security office.
Apply for Medicare Part A and B Online
Applying for Medicare Part A and Part B (Original Medicare) online is a quick and easy process on the Social Security website, taking approximately ten minutes. After you have applied for Medicare Part A and Part B online, you can check the status of your application. This online portal is also where you will appeal claims, request a replacement card, and print a benefit verification letter when needed.
Enrolling in Medicare online became the most popular way of enrollment during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, we understand technology can be an issue for some, so there are other ways to enroll in coverage if you do not wish to enroll in Medicare online.
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Apply for Medicare by Phone
Just like applying online, applying for Medicare by phone is easy. You can contact a Medicare representative at your local Social Security office by calling 1-800-772-1213. This number will automatically connect you to a Medicare representative who can help you in the process of applying for Original Medicare.
Depending on call volume, there might be a wait time. If the wait time is above average, you can schedule an appointment to have a representative call you.
Where Can I Apply for Medicare B in Person?
If you prefer to apply in person, you can sign up for Medicare at your local Social Security office. It is not required to have an appointment. However, scheduling an appointment will ensure that you are seen by an agent at a specific time and can help drastically reduce your wait time.
The Social Security website has a ZIP Code lookup tool to show you the closest office to you. Once you find your nearest office, if they offer appointments, it is recommended that you make one in advance.
How Long Does It Take to Apply for Medicare?
Once you submit your Medicare coverage application, Medicare will review it to ensure all the information is accurate and complete.
When applying, be sure to double-check the accuracy of your contact information. This is important to ensure prompt delivery of your Medicare identification card, as well as in the event Medicare needs to contact you regarding additional information for enrollment.
After your application is received and processed, you will receive a letter from Social Security with the decision. You can always contact Social Security for assistance if you encounter any questions or problems during the process.
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In most circumstances, you will receive a Medicare I.D. card a few weeks after your initial application is approved. Unfortunately, sometimes waiting times can be as long as 90 days. So, be sure to submit your application with additional time.
However, if you automatically enroll in Medicare because you already receive Social Security benefits, you will receive your I.D. card two months before turning 65.
Don’t Register for Medicare Alone
No one should have to enroll in Medicare alone. Licensed Medicare agents are available to you at no additional cost to help you enroll in the right plan and clear any confusion you may have. If you’re uncomfortable with applying for Medicare, we can help!
When enrolling, an agent who understands different Medicare plan types and the coverage associated with Medicare is essential. Plus, when you enroll through an agent, you will never have to pay a fee or be charged extra for your monthly premium. Agents are paid directly by insurance companies.
How to Sign Up for Medicare
Signing up for Medicare can seem overwhelming, but we're here to help you! Our licensed Medicare agents are available if you have questions about specific plans or enrollment periods or want to enroll in coverage.
To begin your Medicare journey today, call the number above or complete our online rate form today!
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Sources:
MedicareFAQ is dedicated to providing you with authentic and trustworthy Medicare information. We have strict sourcing guidelines and work diligently to serve our readers with accurate and up-to-date content.
- How Do I Sign Up For Medicare, Medicare.gov. Accessed June, 2023 .
https://www.medicare.gov/basics/get-started-with-medicare/sign-up/how-do-i-sign-up-for-medicare
I applied for Medicare Part A and Part B and I’m waiting for SS to process it. I’ve since discovered I do not need Part B. How do I stop the application process or withdraw/change my application
Hi Charlette, If you have creditable coverage and are delaying Part B benefits, you will need refuse coverage before your start date. To do this, you will need to contact Social Security directly since you have already applied for coverage.
Can my Dad drop his Medicare Advantage Patriot Plan 2 and sign up for Medicare and get a supplemental plan for more coverage? If so, what type of timeline are we expecting? The AARP Medicare Advantage Patriot Plan 2 is HORRIBLE! My Dad keeps thinking all he has to pay out of pocket is $4800.00 but we are learning that they can pull the plug on his in house rehab with just a couple of days notice and then we are scrambling to place him…on a weekend no less! The hospital discharged him even though he was still experiencing dizziness. They take his blood pressure laying down (low) , sitting up (lower) and standing (VERY LOW) with help only. I am completely lost as my husband and I have medicare and a supplemental plan offered through his former employer. Why are they offerieng the elderly these medicare advantage plans when they don’t cover what is needed when a major health crisis happens? We really need help to get him settled in and taken care of in a proper and just way. Need your advice…PLEASE!!!
Robin, I am very sorry to hear about your father’s situation. Unfortunately, unless he qualifies for a Special Enrollment Period, he may be stuck on the Medicare Advantage plan through the end of the year. These plans are typically a one-year contract. Depending on the state he resides in, he may be required to answer health questions when enrolling in a Medicare Supplement plan. Without a SEP, his next opportunity to enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan would be the Annual Enrollment Period in October.
Hello. I turn 65 on April 26, 2022. I have read that I sign up 3 months in advance. Can I sign up now, or do I need to wait for the 26th of this month? When will my Medicare go into Effect?
Elizabeth, Happy early birthday! You are actually in your Open Enrollment Period now! This begins 6 months prior to your 65th birthday and allows you to lock in your rate for Medicare Supplemental coverage. During this time, it is important to speak with a licensed agent to enroll in the best plan to fit your needs. When enrolling in Part B, you can do so 3 months priors to turning 65. Our licensed agents can help you walk through the process, so you do not miss a beat. To speak with an agent, complete this form.
HI – i will be retiring in April 2022, 3 months shy of my 65th birthday. It was my intention to pay for COBRA (my employer has 5000 employees and has notified us that our Rx plan is considered credible coverage) for the 3 months until Medicare kicks in. But, now folks are telling me that COBRA is not considered credible coverage and if i have a gap between coverage from work and Medicare, i will incur lifetime penalties. Does this mean i HAVE to work until I am 65 but should apply at 64 and 9 months?
Hi Bernadette – COBRA is not creditable coverage, and that will start to matter when you turn 65. It does not matter if you retire without creditable coverage for Medicare when you are 64 – that will not count toward a penalty – but the clock will start ticking at your 65th birthday. We recommend you utilize your Initial Enrollment Period, which will begin for you on April 1, 2022.
I have been retired from the Federal Gov since 31 Dec 2017 and have been collecting SS pension since August 2019. I turn 65 years old this coming December 16, 2021. Am I automatically enrolled in Medicare Part B on my 65th Bday?
Hi Aris! If you’re collecting SS benefits, you’ll be automatically enrolled in Part A & Part B with an effective date of 12/1/21. You’ll receive your Medicare card in the mail the month before your birthday. Once you receive your Medicare card, you can reach out to us to sign up for a supplemental Medicare policy so it will go into effect the same day as your Part B.
I currently signed up for Medicare A and B when can I sign up for advantage and Part D
Hi Donna! If you’re outside your Initial Enrollment Period, the next time you can enroll is during the Annual Enrollment Period which starts next month. Your effective date would be January 1st.
I will end my current employment October 31. I’ll be 66 and 3 months old. I started receiving SS benefits in March, while still working. I have Medicare Part A but will need Part B when I leave current employment, October 31. Can I apply for Medicare Part B now so it’s effective November 1 or do I have to wait until January 1, 2022. If so, this will leave me without insurance for a few months and I don’t want that! Please lead me in the proper direction with the information I provided
Thank you
Hello! Yes, you can apply now to have your coverage become effective once your group employer coverage ends. There are two forms you need to fill out and provide to Medicare, you can upload the forms to your account dashboard with Social Security/Medicare. One form will need to be completed by your employer to show proof of creditable coverage. Once you do this, you’ll be able to also enroll in a supplement plan so it goes into effect with your Part B.
I just turned 65 aug 16, I am still working with large company, I have health coverage, am I automatically enrolled in hospital?
Hi Rose! You’re only automatically enrolled if you’re collecting Social Security. If not, you’ll have the manually enroll in Part A through SSA.gov.
I recently mailed Form 40B and Form L564 to my local SS office. I called the toll-free number for SS and was told this could take up to 90 days! But my group health insurance coverage ends on August 31. I retired last month. I need Part B Medicare to begin on September 1. I’ve had Part A Medicare for about 15 months. My eligibility for Social Security retirement benefits began last month and the first monthly payment will be July 28. How do I get them to go ahead and process my forms for Part B Medicare so that coverage begins September 1? I’ve called SS and received no help other than being told my application hasn’t yet been entered in their system by my local SS office, and that it takes about two weeks for the local SS office to do that. Followed by up to 90 days for SS to then actually enroll me in Part B. I’ll end up going several weeks with only Part A Medicare which will be very risky and frightening. Additionally, I need to purchase a Medigap plan but I cannot do that until I have Part B!
Hi Helen! Unfortunately, there is no expedited option for your Medicare application. Ideally, the forms should have been mailed into SS sooner. The good news is, it does not normally take 90 days. Once you know your Part B effective date, you can contact a Medicare agent to enroll in Medigap so that your Part B and Medigap have the same effective date.
i have to mail forms CMS-L564 and CMS-40B and do not know the correct address to snail mail these forms and i can’t seem to find on website. Would appreciate this addition to your websites. thank you.
Hi Laura! You should return the completed forms to your local Social Security field office. If you have questions, you can contact Social Security at 1-800-772-1213.