Filing for Medicare is easier than it may seem. Medicare makes it very easy to fill out paperwork, find out if you’re eligible, and to be able to use your plan as soon as you are eligible. We have laid out what you need to know when filing for Medicare.

1) Almost 65: How do I get Medicare?

Three months before your coverage will start Medicare will send you the “Initial Enrollment Questionnaire” (IEQ). This questionnaire asks about other health insurance you have that might pay before Medicare does (group, liability insurance, worker’s comp). Click here if you’re ready to sign up for Medicare.

2) Who is Eligible to Sign Up for Medicare

  • 64 years and 9 months old
  • You receive a disability pension from the railroad retirement board and meet certain conditions
  • You have been entitled to Social Security disability benefits for 24 months
  • You receive Social Security disability benefits because you have Lou Gehrig’s disease
  • You worked long enough in a government job where Medicare taxes were paid and you have been entitled to Social Security disability benefits for 24 months
  • You are the child or widow(er) age 50 or older, including a divorced widow(er), of someone who has worked long enough in a government job where Medicare taxes were paid and you meet the requirements of the Social Security disability program
  • You have permanent kidney failure and you receive maintenance dialysis or a kidney transplant (under certain conditions)

3) I’m Not Ready to Retire, Do I Still Sign Up for Medicare?

Yes and no. You will still sign up for Medicare Part A, but you may delay Medicare Part B coverage until your job-based or retirement insurance ends. You’ll want to talk with your insurance agent and HR person to ensure that your coverage is creditable.

If your insurance is not creditable you’ll want to look into Medigap, Medicare Advantage, and Prescription drug coverage.

4) What is Medigap?

Medigap plans are extra insurance to help fill in the gaps where Medicare leaves off. The main reason to have these plans is because they offer extended hospitalization coverage, but these plans may also cover your insurance when you travel to another country, blood transfusions, deductibles, and excess charges. To learn more read about the Medigap Overview and 6 Things You Must Know.

Next Steps
If you have any further questions about Medicare please call the number above or click here if you’re ready to get a Medicare Insurance quote.