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Senior Retirement Tips :: Medicare Application
Medicare Application: Filling Out an Application for Medicare
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Are you approaching 65 and wondering how to fill out your Medicare application? Where to go for Medicare information? Well, keep reading for instructions on how to obtain Medicare, whether you're applying for Social Security benefits or not.
If You Already Receive Social Security Benefits
If you are 65 or older and are already receiving social security benefits, you don't need to do anything to apply for Medicare. By registering for Social Security, you are automatically enrolled in Medicare (Parts A and B) the very month you turn 65 and without filling out a Medicare application.
For example, if your 65th birthday falls on September 19, 2008, you will be eligible for Medicare beginning on September 01, 2008. 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 nearing the age of 65 and not yet receiving Social Security or Medicare, you can actually fill out an application for both at the same time. To ensure your benefits coverage isn't delayed, you should fill out and send in your application at least three months before your 65th birthday.
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) and you are over the age of 65 and currently resident in the United States. Those with certain types of long-term illness or a disability may also qualify for Medicare.
How to Apply
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 http://socialsecurity.gov.
To be eligible for an online application, you must prove your identity by answering a series of questions. You must also prove your eligibility - you should be at least 61 years old and 9 months, 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
If you're close to 65 and don't receive Social Security benefits, you can still fill out a Medicare application. To do this, you simply need to call or visit your local Social Security office. Again, you can phone them at 1-800-772-1213 or visit them online at http://socialsecurity.gov.
See also:
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SeniorRetireTips.com :: Medicare Application