How & When to Enroll in Medicare
When it’s time to apply for Medicare, there are several ways you can enroll in the federal-funded health insurance program, making it a bit confusing if you’ve never done so before. However, the team from Good and Associates Insurance Services is here to make things easier on you. We’ve helped many find the perfect plan for them.
Below you’ll find everything you need to know about how, and when, to apply for Medicare!
What Are My Options?
For some, Medicare enrollment is automatic if you’re already receiving Social Security benefits. However, for others, it depends upon when and how they become eligible for enrollment. For those required to sign up for Medicare, it can be done by:
- Enrolling online at the Social Security Administration’s website.
- By calling the Social Security Administration’s office during their normal business hours.
- By visiting your local Social Security Administration’s office in person.
How Can I Enroll in Medicare Online?
Enrolling in Medicare online is relatively easy. However, there are some important things to make note of. For those who want to enroll online, Medicare’s fall open enrollment period runs from October 15 to December 7 every year.
When Can I Enroll in Medicare if I’m Not Enrolled Automatically?
If you’re not receiving Social Security benefits when you turn 65, you’ll need to enroll in Medicare on your own. The initial enrollment period is a seven-month period that occurs three months before your 65th birthday, the month you turn 65, and the three months afterward. However, if you don’t enroll during this period for one reason or another, there are still other periods in which you can enroll including:
- Medicare General Enrollment Period: This period occurs each year from January 1 to March 31. For those who didn’t sign up during their initial enrollment period, there may be late fees associated with your enrollment.
- Medicare Special Enrollment: This period occurs when you choose not to enroll during your initial enrollment period because at that time you were currently covered under another health insurance plan. However, if you lose your health insurance or want to switch from your group insurance coverage to Medicare, you can sign up during this special enrollment period, which is an eight-month period beginning when you lose your current healthcare coverage or you’re no longer employed.
Contact us today to apply for Medicare!
Having a professional help you navigate the Medicare application process can make it much easier. To learn more about how to apply for Medicare, contact us today online or call 1 (800) 429-9900 or (909) 613-0056.
