What is Medicare Part A?
Medicare Part A covers hospital and skilled nursing facility stays, hospice care, and some home health care costs. This is one of the two parts of Original Medicare. Most people get Part A for free (no premium) as long as they have worked at least 10 years and paid Medicare taxes. Even if you are…
What is Medicare Part B?
Medicare Part B helps to cover doctors’ appointments, as well as preventative and specialty services, outpatient care, home health care, and some medical equipment. This is the second part of “Original Medicare.”
What is Medicare Part C / Medicare Advantage Plan?
Private carriers offer Part C plans, also known as Medicare Advantage Plans, which offer all the benefits covered under Original Medicare (parts A and B) and more. You can select from HMOs, PPOs, Private Fee-for-Service, and Medicare Medical Savings Account (MSA) Plans. In order to join the Part C Plan, you need to be first…
What is Medicare Part D / Prescription Drug Plan?
Medicare Part D is also known as the Prescription Drug Plan. It is a requirement for every Medicare-eligible person to have a Prescription Drug Plan, which can be purchased through private carriers. You can purchase a standalone Part D plan in addition to Original Medicare, or purchase a Part C plan, also known as a…
What is Medigap / Medicare Supplemental Insurance?
Medigap plans, also called Medicare Supplement Plans, or Med Supp, provide extra insurance that helps you pay for your Medicare Parts A and B out-of-pocket costs – such as co-insurance and deductibles – which are “gaps” in medical coverage. Medigap plans are purchased through private carriers, though federal and state laws regulate Medigap policies. Medigap…
Do I have to sign up or will I be automatically enrolled in Medicare when I turn 65?
If you are currently receiving Social Security benefits, you will be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and B. A “Welcome to Medicare” kit will be mailed to you and a notice to “decline” your Part B will be available if you choose not to take Part B at that time. If you do not…
What happens if I miss my IEP for Medicare?
If you miss the IEP (Initial Enrollment Period), you can enroll during the GEP (General Enrollment Period) between January 1st and March 31st. The coverage will begin July 1st. Keep in mind that if you miss your IEP, there could be a late enrollment penalty once your benefits start.
Where can I apply for Medicare?
You can apply Online at https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/ You can call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213, 1-800-325-0778 (For TTY users) (Business hours are Monday through Friday, from 7AM to7PM) They will mail forms to you You can visit your local Social Security office
When can I enroll if I am under 65, but on disability?
If you’re under 65, but on disability, you may be eligible for Medicare. As long as you’re receiving an SSDI check from Social Security Disability Insurance for more than 24 months. You will be automatically enrolled at the beginning of 25th month.
When do I need to enroll in Medicare?
When you turn 65 or when you first become eligible for Medicare. You will be able to enroll 3 months before your 65th birthday, the month of your birthday or three months after.