Your Guide to Enrolling in Original Medicare
Time to enroll in Original Medicare Parts A and B? Wondering how you do it? This guide is for you!
While we can’t fill out the application for you, we can at least get you pointed in the right direction. There are three ways you can enroll, and we’ll discuss each of those in this guide.
1. In Person at Your Local Social Security Office
Many of our clients like to visit their local Social Security office and file their applications in person. One benefit to this is that you’ll have an employee there to help you work through any questions.
You’ll need to call your local office to schedule an appointment. They’ll let you know what documents to bring to your appointment and what questions to be prepared to answer.
2. Over the Phone with the Social Security Administration
If you prefer not to travel to an office to enroll, you can also do so over the phone. You have the option to either call your local Social Security office or the main, toll-free number.
The toll-free number is 1-800-772-1213 (TTY dial 1-800-325-0778).
3. Apply Online at SSA.gov
Lastly, you can apply online at SSA.gov. Follow the link and click on the blue button that says “Apply for Medicare Only.”
If you choose to apply online, you’ll also need to create a “my Social Security” account. You may already have an account setup, but if you don’t, you’ll need to answer some personal questions to complete the account setup.
SSA.gov has a handy checklist of items you may need to complete this process.
After you’ve created your “my Social Security” account, you can fill out the online application and apply. Be sure to write your login information down for future use.
After submitting your application using one of these methods, your Medicare ID card will arrive on your doorstep (or wherever you get your mail) in about two weeks. In addition to your card, you’ll receive a “Welcome to Medicare” letter and a helpful “Medicare and You” booklet.
These are great resources that will help guide you on your Medicare journey.
Give us a call as soon as you have submitted your application for Medicare Parts A and B. We can discuss any other plans you’d like to use to supplement your coverage and can get those applications started while we wait for your Medicare ID to arrive. Some policies to consider include:
