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Keys to understanding Original Medicare Part a & Part b


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When Should You Apply for Original Medicare?

The answer to this question can depend on whether you have paid into the Medicare tax for a total of 40 quarters, equivalent to 10 years. If you have,  a month or two prior to your 65th birthday social security will issue you your Medicare Part A (Hospital Benefits) at no cost to you. 


If you plan to remain on an employer /spouse health insurance plan (or other insurance), you can waive your option to request Medicare Part B (Medical Benefits). However, if you decide to voluntary or involuntary disenroll, in order to avoid a lifetime Part B late enrollment penalty you will have a 63 day window to request Medicare Part B.


For people who are retired, have left their employer coverage, and are planning to use original Medicare as their primary coverage, you will want to review your Medicare Part C & Part D options during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP.)


What is the Initial Enrollment Period? The IEP is a 7 month interval. It starts 3 months before your 65th birthday month, includes your birthday month, and then continues 3 months after your 65th birthday month.


If you’re not 100% sure when you IEP is or when you should enroll, we are happy to figure it out with you.


It is important to know when your Initial Enrollment Period will be. If you miss enrolling during this period, you will be subject to late enrollment penalties.


You can avoid these by enrolling in Part A or Part B (Original Medicare), or Part C (Medicare Advantage). In addition, if you need Part D drug coverage, you can enroll in Part D during your Initial Enrollment Period.


The best way to avoid any penalties is to simply reach out to us and have a short conversation. We can tell you when exactly you should enroll by, and how to do it. And if you need help, we are happy to guide you through the process!

How to Apply for Medicare

Online

If you choose to apply online, you will use the Social Security office website to apply for Part A and Part B. We recommend doing this 3 months before your 65th birthday so you can avoid any gaps in coverage. That way, when you need Medicare as your primary coverage, you will have it.

On The Phone

To enroll in Medicare by phone, simple contact your local Social Security office and tell them that you would like to apply for Medicare. You will likely be mailed some forms to complete and send back, so getting your coverage can take slightly longer than the online option.

In Person

This is the best option for folks who want to take care of their Medicare quickly. Simply look up your local Social Security Office, make an appointment to enroll, and show up at the allotted appointment time at the Social Security Office.

Medicare card

Common Questions

When Applying for Medicare

  • When is my initial enrollment?

    The Open Enrollment Period depends on your birthday month. It begins 3 months before you turn 65, includes your birthday month, and then continues 3 months after you turn 65.

  • When do I get my Medicare card?

    After applying for Medicare, it will usually take 3 weeks or so to receive your card. For those folks already on Social Security, you will be automatically enrolled and you will get your card via mail 2 months before turning 65.

  • Do I have to Apply Every Year?

    No, you do not. As long as you pay your premiums on time, your coverage automatically will renew. It is important to sit down and review your coverage at least once a year, as needs change. Even if your needs don't change, there can be changes to plans and coverage that will affect you.


    When you enroll with our help, we make sure to review your coverage every year so you always get what you are expecting to get.

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