For most people, turning 65 means you’re eligible for Original Medicare, Part A and Part B. Even if you have medical insurance through an Employer Group Health Plan (EGHP), learn about the benefits of Medicare. You might save significant money depending on what your EGHP premiums and deductibles are. Keep in mind, that if you rely on your EGHP for any dependents, your enrollment in Medicare will effect their insurance.
If you are retiring at 65, and applying for Social Security Retirement benefits, you may automatically be enrolled in Medicare.
Automatically enrolling in Original Medicare
If you’re under 65, you can apply for Medicare Part A and Part B through Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board at the same time that you apply for retirement benefits.
If this is the case, you’ll be automatically enrolled in Medicare when you turn 65, and you don’t need to submit another application. You should receive your Medicare card in the mail three months before your 65th birthday, and your benefits will start on the first day of the month you turn 65. If your birthday is on the first of the month, then your benefits start on the first day of the previous month.
If you aren’t getting retirement benefits yet, you will need to sign up manually for Medicare Part A and/or Part B through Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board:
Visit the Social Security website. You can apply for Medicare only if you’re not yet ready to receive retirement benefits.
You can also call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213, Monday through Friday, from 7AM to 7PM. TTY users can call 1-800-325-0778. Tuesday afternoons are usually the best time to call.
Apply in person at your local Social Security office.
If you worked for a railroad, you can apply for Medicare through the Railroad Retirement Board at 1-877-772-5772, Monday through Friday, from 9 AM to 3:30 PM. TTY users can dial 1-312-751-4701.
If you feel overwhelmed with the details and rules associated with Medicare, you are not alone. If you live in Colorado, and would like assistance, peruse my website, and call 303-725-7009 for an appointment.