Medicare Supplemental Insurance Quotes - Medicare Supplements Made Easy

Medicare Supplement Jacksonville, FL

Posted by Julia Gilels

Most Americans become eligible for Medicare when they turn 65. What you need to do to actually get Medicare depends on whether you are receiving Social Security retirement benefits or railroad retirement benefits.

If you are 65 and receiving Social Security retirement benefits or Railroad Retirement benefits, you will be automatically enrolled in both Medicare Part A and Part B.

You do not need to contact anyone. You will receive a package in the mail three months before your 65th birthday with your new Medicare card and a letter explaining how Medicare works and that you have been automatically signed up for both Medicare Part A and Part B. If you are receiving Social Security retirement benefits, your package and card will come from Social Security. If you get railroad retirement benefits, your package and card will come from the Railroad Retirement Board.

The letter will also explain that your monthly Part B premium will be automatically deducted from your Social Security check or railroad retirement check beginning the month your coverage begins. You will be given the option to turn down Part B.

Do not turn down Medicare Part B unless you have employer insurance from your or your spouse's current job. If you do not have employer insurance and you turn down Part B, you may have to wait to sign up and have to pay a hefty premium penalty when you do sign up.

If you are 65, but are not receiving Social Security retirement benefits or railroad retirement benefits, you will need to actively enroll into Medicare parts A and B. You can enroll yourself into Medicare three different ways.

1. Online by visiting www.ssa.gov This is the Social Security Administration’s website
2. By Calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213
3. By going into your local Social Security office (appointment recommended)

Usually the best way to enroll into Medicare is by calling social security directly. You get the peace of mind of speaking with a representative and it can be done at your convenience from the comfort of your own home.

When you call 1-800-772-1213, you will reach a voice activated system that asks what your call is in reference to. You should say “Medicare.” Then, they will explain some information about Medicare and the part D prescription coverage and ask you again what your calling about. This time you will say “enroll in Medicare.” They will then connect you for agent service. You will be asked if this call is general or personal. You always want to answer general because if you answer personal, you will have to spend 20 minutes spelling your name and personal information to a computer. When you say “general” the only information you will need to provide is your social security number. Then you will have the option to have social security call you back when it is your turn, or wait on hold.

The first agent that you speak with will collect and verify all of your information and then connect you or schedule a call with an agent who can prepare your application for Medicare. The entire process , including hold times, should take no more than 45 minutes. The agent can also discuss with you and set up your social security payment if you wish to begin receiving it.

If you have problems or questions on any of this process, a Medicare Supplements Made Easy representative can do a conference call with social security and walk you through the entire process. Call us today and we can help!

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