Website: www.medicare.gov
Toll Free 1-800-772-1213 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday.
TTY 1-800-325-0778
Where to go to apply for Medicare online or by calling
Many people are confused about the steps to take towards getting Medicare when they become Medicare eligible. You are either eligible due to a disability or due to age.
Most people will age into Medicare and will need to apply to be enrolled in both Parts A the hospital benefit and Part B the medical/outpatient doctor benefit. Your coverage will begin the first day of your birthday month, unless your birthday is actually the 1st, then your coverage will start on the 1st of the month prior. Its encouraged to apply 3 months prior to your 65th birthday month. However, if you’re already drawing Social Security benefits you should automatically be enrolled.
If you are near Medicare eligibility due to age and have not received any information, then maybe it’s time to contact the Social Security Administration but before you do there are some things to consider.
Things to consider before enrolling in Medicare Part B outpatient coverage.
If you are eligible for both Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B and you refuse to enroll in Part B simply because you don’t see the need and you have no other qualifying health plan such as a group insurance plan through an employer or employer of a spouse, then you could be charged 10% more (for life) on your Part B premium than someone who first signed up when eligible. The penalty is 10% for every year you delayed.
1. You may enroll in Medicare directly by going online here:
You can also apply:
If you do not live in the U.S. or one of its territories you can also contact the nearest U.S. Social Security office, U.S. Embassy or consulate.
