Tips for Completing Your Application for Medicare Recipients

Sep 24
18:58

2008

Trevor Price

Trevor Price

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Are you nearing retirement, but unsure of how to obtain or fill out a Medicare application? Do you know where to go to get Medicare information?

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Are you approaching 65 and wondering how to fill out your Medicare application? Where to go for Medicare information? Well,Tips for Completing Your Application for Medicare Recipients Articles keep reading for instructions on how to obtain Medicare, whether you're applying for Social Security benefits or not. 

For Those Who Get Social Security Checks

If you're over the age of 65 and receiving regular Social Security benefits, you should already be enrolled in Medicare and don't have to do anything else. By registering for your Social Security, you also registered for Parts A and B of Medicare at the same time. There is no need to fill out an additional Medicare application.

For example, if your 65th birthday falls on September 19, 2009, you will be eligible for Medicare beginning on September 01, 2009. Your Medicare card is then mailed to you about two to three months before your 65th birthday. If you don't want Medicare Part B, then simply follow the enclosed instructions and return the card.

Applying for Social Security and Medicare at the Same Time

If you're coming up on 65 but have yet to apply for Social Security and Medicare, you should do so at least three to four months before your 65th birthday. Applying for Social Security will automatically register you for Medicare. Failure to apply on time could result in your benefits being delayed.

Who is Eligible

Generally, most people are eligible for Medicare - as long as you or your spouse worked for a minimum of 10 years with a Medicare-covered employer (most employment scenarios are eligible), are over the age of 65 and currently a resident in the United States. Those with certain types of long-term illness or a disability may also qualify for Medicare.

The Social Security and Medicare Application Process

To apply for Medicare and Social Security, visit a local Social Security Office or call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213. You can also fill out an application online at their website, which can be found at socialsecurity.gov.

Not everyone is eligible for the online application profess. First, you must prove your identity by answering several questions about yourself and past tax returns. Next, you must meet certain requirements such as - be over the age of 61 years and 9 months, planning to begin receiving Social Security benefits in the next 4 months, able to receive your benefits via direct deposit and be a permanent resident of the United States.

Applying for Medicare, but not Social Security

If you do not receive Social Security or do not plan to receive Social Security benefits, you can still obtain Medicare. To do so, you must fill out a separate Medicare application. You can do so by calling the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or visiting a local Social Security office.