By Scott Goodell (Goodell Health Solutions)

So, you’re about to turn 65. Congratulations! One of the first things you need to do is sign up for Medicare.

You’re not alone if you find the process of signing up for Medicare mysterious and intimidating. There are lots of choices you need to make, and those choices can save or cost you money (sometimes both!).

Sure, Medicare can seem overwhelming at first. But with a little basic information and guidance the process can be a lot easier.

Keep reading to learn how to get started with Medicare and how to choose the best coverage to meet your needs.

How to Sign Up for Medicare

Most people qualify for Medicare when they turn 65. If you qualify for Social Security benefits, you qualify for Medicare.

You need to be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident and reside in the United States.

If you already receive Social Security benefits, you’ll be automatically enrolled in what’s called “traditional Medicare” (more about this later). You should receive your Medicare card in the mail before your 65^th birthday.

If you don’t receive Social Security benefits yet, you have a seven-month window to sign up for Medicare without penalty. This window starts three months before the month of your 65^th birthday and ends three months after your birth month.

There are three ways you can sign up:

1. Go to the Social Security website (SSA.gov) and click on the “Medicare” tab. Select “Sign up for Medicare” and follow the directions. You may need to set up your “MySSA” account if you haven’t already done so.
2. Call your local Social Security office and make an appointment to sign up for Medicare. (There may be a wait involved, even with an appointment.)
3. Call 1-800-772-1213 and tell them you want to sign up for Medicare. (Note: Social Security and Medicare phone lines tend to have long hold times…it’s best to call early in the day)

What Happens Next?

When you sign up for Medicare, you’re automatically enrolled in what’s called Medicare Part A. This covers hospitalization expenses.

Now you have a choice:

1. You can enroll in Medicare Part B, which covers 80% of medical expenses (doctor visits, etc.). If you do, you’ll probably want to enroll in a Medicare Supplemental (or Medigap) policy to help cover what Part B doesn’t.Since Plan B doesn’t cover prescriptions, you’ll also need a Medicare part D (prescription) plan.Or…You can enroll in a Medicare Part C plan (also called Medicare Advantage). These are Medicare-approved plans which work like PPOs or HMOs. Usually, they also cover prescriptions plus other benefits.

However, if you want to see an out-of-network provider you’ll have to pay more. Check to make sure your preferred providers are in-network before you sign up.

Got Questions About Medicare?

Hi, I’m Scott Goodell. I help my clients find Medicare coverage that fits their needs and their budget.

I got started as a Medicare agent after I helped my mother figure out her Medicare. Since then, I’ve helped a lot of people find the right Medicare solution for their medical and financial situation.

Need help figuring out Medicare? I’m here for you. Call me at (832) 773-7981, email me at scott.goodell@ghstx.com, or use my contact form.

Disclaimer
The information provided by Goodell Health Solutions is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, financial, or medical advice. We are licensed Medicare insurance agents, and our role is to help you understand your Medicare options.