by Jan Cammack, GHB Insurance Agent

It is simple, quick and easy to sign up online to receive Medicare without having to drive to a local Social Security office or wait for an appointment with a Social Security representative.

For those eligible to receive Medicare when you turn 65, you can sign up during the 7-month period that begins 3 months before the month you turn 65, includes the month you turn 65, and ends 3 months after the month you turn 65.

Original Medicare is administered directly by the federal government, is the way most people get their Medicare, and has two parts:

Part A covers most medically necessary hospital, skilled nursing facility, home health, and hospice care. It is free if you have worked and paid Social Security taxes for at least 40 calendar quarters (10 years); you will pay a monthly premium if you have worked and paid taxes for less time.

Part B covers most medically necessary doctors’ services, preventive care, durable medical equipment, hospital outpatient services, laboratory tests, x-rays, mental health care, and some home health and ambulance services. You pay a monthly premium for this coverage.

Really, It Is Simple

Using the online application to sign up for Medicare takes less than 10 minutes.

In most cases, once your application is submitted electronically, you’re done. There are no forms to sign and usually, no extra documentation required. Social Security processes your application and contacts you if they need more information. Within a few weeks you simply receive your Medicare card in the mail.

Medicare is managed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Social Security works with CMS by enrolling people in Medicare, so be sure to watch for any mail that you receive from CMS.

You can apply for Medicare benefits at age 65 even if you aren’t applying for Social Security retirement benefits. For more information about applying for Medicare only and delaying retirement benefits, visit Applying for Medicare Only – Before You Decide.

Do You Need More?

Most of my clients want to supplement their Medicare benefits with other insurance. A Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) policy can help with some of the health care costs that Medicare doesn’t cover. You can check whether a test, service or item is covered by clicking here.

I have been assisting clients with Medicare and helping them find the best supplemental plans to meet their needs for than 17 years.

Don’t hesitate to give me a call or send an email with any question large or small at (350) 943-4500 or at Jan@GHBInsurance.com/