Overview to Help Understand Your Application For Medicare Insurance

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? Do you know if you're even eligible for Medicare? To find out how to apply for Medicare and who is eligible, read on.

If You Already Receive Social Security Benefits

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.

Medicare should begin the month you turn 65. For example, if your 65th birthday is on October 15, 2009, your Medicare eligibility will begin on October 01, 2009. Once you apply for your Social Security, your Medicare card will be mailed to you several months before your 65th birthday. If you wish to opt out of Medicare Part B, simply 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.

Eligibility for Medicare

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.

To be eligible for an online application, you must prove your identity by answering a series of questions. You will also be required to prove your eligibility - you should be at least 61 years and 9 months old, you must be planning to start your Social Security benefits within the next 4 months, you must live in the United States and you must be willing to receive your Social Security benefits through direct deposit.

Applying for Medicare, but not Social Security

Many people assume that if they do not already receive Social Security benefits, they do now qualify for Medicare. This is not the case.

If you do not receive Social Security or do not plan to receive the 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.