This week we are providing some information about Medicare because we receive many questions regarding the application process and requesting information about the program. Medicare is a federal health insurance program open to individuals age 65 and older, or under age 65 with certain disabilities or conditions. The Social Security Medicare program includes Part A which covers hospital stays and other inpatient care, and Part B which covers outpatient and home health care. Private insurance companies following specific rules can offer Part C, also called a Medicare Advantage Plan, which bundles Parts A and B together. Part D is also available for prescription drug coverage.
When you are ready to apply for Medicare coverage, here is some information you may find helpful. There are multiple enrollment periods, starting with the Initial Enrollment Period. This is a 7-month window starting 3 months before your 65th birthday and ending 3 months after you turn 65. There are three ways to sign up:
- Apply online at https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/. You will first need to create a secure account at https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/ in order to sign up or apply for benefits.
- Call Social Security at 1-800-722-1213.
- Make an appointment at your local Social Security office. You can locate the nearest office at https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp.
After you apply, you will receive a welcome packet by mail along with your Medicare card.
If you haven’t created an estate plan yet or need to make changes to an estate plan, contact our Georgia estate planning attorneys at Grissom Law, LLC today for a consultation.
Disclaimer
This Blog/Web Site is made available for educational purposes only as well as to give you general information and a general understanding of the law, not to provide legal advice. By using this blog site you understand that there is no attorney-client relationship between you and Grissom Law, LLC.