How to Enroll in Medicare
The Social Security Administration (SSA) processes enrollment applications for Original Medicare (Part A and B) and oversees premiums and penalties.
If you are not receiving Social Security before 65 and therefore automatically enrolled in Medicare, you can apply for Part A and B coverage through the Social Security Administration website: https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up.
Do you need help navigating your Medicare options? Speak with a CoverRight-licensed agent today for personalized assistance and to find the right plan for you.
Automatic Medicare Enrollment Eligibility
Depending on your current situation, you may automatically be enrolled in Medicare:
- Suppose you are turning 65 and receiving Social Security payments at least 4 months before being eligible for Medicare. In that case, you will automatically get Parts A and B starting the first day of the month you turn 65. If your birthday lands on the first day of the month, then coverage will start the first day of the prior month. You will typically also receive your red, white, and blue Medicare card in the mail 3 months before your 65th birthday.
- If you are turning 65 and not receiving Social Security, you must contact the Social Security Administration to proactively sign up for Medicare during your Initial Enrollment Period (described below). This includes anyone without Social Security for at least four months before becoming eligible for Medicare.
- Suppose you are under 65 and have a disability. In that case, You will automatically get Part A and B after receiving disability benefits from Social Security Disability Income for 24 months (unless you have ESRD or ALS). Medicare coverage for individuals with ESRD or ALS may begin sooner.
- If you live in Puerto Rico or outside the U.S.: Individuals living in Puerto Rico are automatically enrolled in Part A but must proactively enroll in Part B, even if they meet automatic enrollment criteria for other regions. For individuals living outside the U.S., automatic enrollment is generally not applicable unless they receive Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits and meet other criteria.
What Happens If You Don’t Sign Up for Part B When Automatically Enrolled in Part A
If you’re automatically enrolled in Part A but don’t sign up for Part B, you may face several challenges:
- Late Enrollment Penalty: Waiting too long to enroll in Part B can result in a penalty that lasts for life. You’ll pay an extra 10% for every 12-month period you were eligible but didn’t sign up.
- Coverage Gaps: Without Part B, important outpatient services such as doctor visits, preventive care, and medical equipment won’t be covered.
- Limited Enrollment Opportunities: If you miss your Initial Enrollment Period, you can only sign up during the General Enrollment Period (January 1 to March 31), and your coverage will start on July 1.
Medicare Enrollment for Disability Beneficiaries
Individuals under 65 who receive disability benefits are typically enrolled in Medicare automatically. Here are the key details:
- Timing: Medicare coverage begins automatically after 24 months of receiving Social Security Disability Income (SSDI). For those with ALS, coverage begins the first month SSDI benefits start. For individuals with ESRD, coverage timing depends on specific treatment milestones.
- Notification: You will receive your Medicare card in the mail approximately three months before your coverage begins.
How to Apply for Medicare Part A and B
If you are not automatically enrolled, you can apply for Medicare Part A and B using one of the following methods:
- Online: Visit the SSA website (ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up) for a convenient and straightforward application process.
- Phone: Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778). Representatives can guide you through the process and answer questions.
- In-Person: Visit your local Social Security office. You can find the nearest location using the SSA Office Locator.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Online
- Complete the application form and submit.
- Gather required information, including:
- Social Security number.
- Birth certificate or proof of birth.
- Employment details, if applicable.
- Information about any current health insurance coverage.
- Visit ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up.
- Follow the prompts to create or log in to your account.
- Create the application form and submit
If you have any questions, contact one of CoverRight’s licensed insurance agents.
