what do i need to know about medicare before signing up

Four things you need to know about Medicare before signing up 1. You get a seven-month window to enroll initially Medicare eligibility begins at age 65, but you can sign up a bit... 2. You can sign up online Many seniors sign up for Medicare by calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213, or by ...

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What should I know about Medicare before enrolling?

Medicare provides health coverage for millions of seniors, and if you're gearing up to enroll, it pays to know what to expect. Here are a few key pieces of information to keep in mind. 1. You get a seven-month window to enroll initially

Can I sign up for Medicare if I already have health insurance?

You can sign up for Medicare even if you already have health coverage Many people continue to work once they turn 65, and as such, have health insurance through an employer.

What is the best age to sign up for Medicare?

Here are a few key pieces of information to keep in mind. 1. You get a seven-month window to enroll initially Medicare eligibility begins at age 65, but you can actually sign up a bit ahead of your 65th birthday to get the ball rolling.

How do seniors sign up for Medicare?

Many seniors sign up for Medicare by calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213, or by visiting a local Social Security office. Those methods are a fine way to enroll, but they may prove time-consuming.

What should I know before signing up for Medicare?

Find Plans that Cover Your DoctorsSome people are enrolled automatically — and some aren't. ... Original Medicare doesn't cover everything. ... Medicare Part D covers prescription drugs — and isn't really optional. ... There are a few enrollment windows. ... Medicare Advantage can bundle your health care.More items...

What questions should I ask when signing up for Medicare?

Use this guide to consider your options when preparing to enroll in Medicare or after you have already enrolled.What are the basics? ... What are your coverage options? ... Should you enroll in Part D? ... Are you eligible for programs that help lower Medicare costs? ... What resources exist to help you navigate Medicare?

What is the first step in getting Medicare?

Step 1: Find out if you need to sign up for Medicare Part A or B.Step 2: Decide if you want Medicare Part B benefits.Step 3: Decide if you want extra coverage with Medicare.Step 4: Decide if you want Medicare Part D, Prescription Drug Coverage.

How many months before I turn 65 should I apply for Medicare?

3 monthsGenerally, we advise people to file for Medicare benefits 3 months before age 65. Remember, Medicare benefits can begin no earlier than age 65. If you are already receiving Social Security, you will automatically be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B without an additional application.

What questions are asked during the Medicare interview?

Medicare Interviewer Interview Questions1Tell me how you organize, plan, and prioritize your work.2Share an effective method you have used to answer applicants' questions about benefits and claim procedures.3What is the key to success when communicating with the public.14 more rows

Who do I talk to about Medicare coverage?

1-800-633-4227Do you have questions about your Medicare coverage? 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) can help. TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048.

Will I automatically be enrolled in Medicare when I turn 65?

Yes. If you are receiving benefits, the Social Security Administration will automatically sign you up at age 65 for parts A and B of Medicare. (Medicare is operated by the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, but Social Security handles enrollment.)

Does Medicare coverage start the month you turn 65?

The date your coverage starts depends on which month you sign up during your Initial Enrollment Period. Coverage always starts on the first of the month. If you qualify for Premium-free Part A: Your Part A coverage starts the month you turn 65.

Can I get Medicare Part B for free?

While Medicare Part A – which covers hospital care – is free for most enrollees, Part B – which covers doctor visits, diagnostics, and preventive care – charges participants a premium. Those premiums are a burden for many seniors, but here's how you can pay less for them.

How close to my 65th birthday should I apply for Medicare?

A: The best time to enroll is during the open enrollment window around your 65th birthday – preferably in the three months before the month you turn 65, so that you'll have Medicare coverage by the time you turn 65.

Do I need to contact Social Security when I turn 65?

Is it automatic when I turn 65? To enroll in Medicare, most people need to contact Social Security directly. Do this before your 65th birthday to avoid a lapse in health coverage.

What happens if you don't enroll in Medicare Part A at 65?

If you don't have to pay a Part A premium, you generally don't have to pay a Part A late enrollment penalty. The Part A penalty is 10% added to your monthly premium. You generally pay this extra amount for twice the number of years that you were eligible for Part A but not enrolled.