How do I apply for Medicare plans in Illinois?
Plan participants should contact the State of Illinois CMS Medicare COB Unit for any questions via phone at 1-800-442-1300 or 217-782-7007. Each plan participant must contact the SSA and apply for Medicare benefits upon turning the age of 65.
What is the this program for teachers in Illinois?
For teachers in Illinois, they have been paying into the THIS program each paycheck. This allows their premiums in the TRIP program to be reduced due to all members subsidizing them throughout their career. However, the THIS program is not meant to be a fully-fledged health insurance offering it is meant to be an add-on to Medicare.
Do retired teachers have to apply for Medicare?
One thing to note is when this retired teacher reaches age 65, they will need to apply for Medicare regardless of if they stay on this group plan. If there is a delay in filing, there may be permanent penalties assessed to monthly premiums. Tax savings all around!
How do I enroll in Medicare?
To enroll in Medicare, visit your local Social Security Administration office or call Social Security toll-free at 8007721213. If you are enrolling in both Medicare Parts A & B, you can also complete your Medicare application online at www.ssa.gov. If you visit your local office, find out which documents to bring with you to your appointment.
Can Illinois teachers get Medicare?
This means if you're a retired teacher enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B, you can choose a Medicare Advantage plan the state offers, which includes drug coverage (Illinois.gov). All Illinois counties have an HMO, OAP, and TCHP option.
How do I apply for Medicare online in Illinois?
Online (at Social Security) – It's the easiest and fastest way to sign up and get any financial help you may need. (You'll need to create your secure my Social Security account to sign up for Medicare or apply for benefits.) Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213. TTY users can call 1-800-325-0778.
Do teachers pay into Medicare?
A: Because they don't pay Social Security taxes. However, teachers who started working within the past eight years do pay into--and should qualify for--Medicare. That's because federal law changed in 1986 to require new teachers to pay Medicare taxes.
What are the requirements for Medicare in Illinois?
When Can You Get Medicare in Illinois?You are age 65 or older.You are under 65, disabled, and receive disability benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board.You have end-stage renal disease (ERSD).You have ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.
What documents do I need to apply for Medicare?
What documents do I need to enroll in Medicare?your Social Security number.your date and place of birth.your citizenship status.the name and Social Security number of your current spouse and any former spouses.the date and place of any marriages or divorces you've had.More items...
How long before you turn 65 do you apply for Medicare?
3 monthsYour first chance to sign up (Initial Enrollment Period) It lasts for 7 months, starting 3 months before you turn 65, and ending 3 months after the month you turn 65. My birthday is on the first of the month.
Do teachers in Illinois get Social Security when they retire?
Is it true that an Illinois teacher cannot collect Social Security? No. If you have earned a Social Security benefit based upon your own work record, you may draw both Social Security and TRS benefits. However, your Social Security benefit may be reduced if you are also receiving a retirement benefit from TRS.
Do Illinois teachers contribute to Social Security?
Illinois is one of 15 states that do not participate in Social Security for teachers. Thus, teachers in Illinois do not pay Social Security taxes.
What is the cost of TRS Medicare Advantage?
TRS-Care Medicare Advantage medical plan — you pay $135 per month if you are a retiree or surviving spouse covering just yourself. TRS-Care Medicare Rx prescription drug plan — your payment for this is included in your TRS-Care premium. Current TRS-Care participants who are turning 65.
How do I contact Medicare in Illinois?
1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)
When can I get Medicare in Illinois?
65 or olderMedicare is health insurance for people 65 or older. You're first eligible to sign up for Medicare 3 months before you turn 65. You may be eligible to get Medicare earlier if you have a disability, End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), or ALS (also called Lou Gehrig's disease).
What is Medicare called in Illinois?
The department's State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) program can answer questions about various Medicare issues, including eligibility and enrollment.