Are you considering enrollment in Medicare but not sure what the options are and how to register to receive the health coverage?
There are multiple plans of Medicare to choose from, and knowing where to start can be confusing. You must first enroll in Original Medicare, which includes Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B.
In addition to Part A & B, there are Parts C, D, and Medicare Supplement, which our agents at Simpler Horizons can help you compare anytime.
Most people aged 65 and older are eligible for free Medicare Part A, as long as they have paid substantial Medicare taxes throughout their working tenure and can be automatically registered at turning 65. Notably, you will also need to register for Part B, which has a monthly premium.
The Social Security office deals with Medicare applications for Parts A and B. They offer several easy options to help you choose how to apply for Medicare. If you are close to turning 65 and considering Medicare, you can apply up to 3 months before the month of your 65th birthday. Although you will find that starting early is advantageous, i.e., your coverage will begin the month you turn 65.
The same period works for your Part D registration, but you have to purchase Part D separately from your insurance company if you want.
Documents Required for Medicare Enrollment
Birth Certificate
The Ministry of Social Security accepts only certain documents to verify your place and date of birth. Most people can use their birth certificates. If the birth certificate is not available at the moment, you will need to provide at least two pieces of alternative documentation. Each must be an official document, such as a school or medical census record or an insurance policy.
Citizenship or Residency Documentation
Medicare is only available to citizens of the US, so you will require proof of your citizenship to apply. For US citizens, birth certificates and Social Security cards are usually sufficient. Emigrants must provide a permanent resident card to verify eligibility.
Current Insurance Coverage
If you’re currently covered through an employer or state-sponsored health plan such as Medicaid, you must provide the respective insurance information. It includes the insurance company’s name, group and policy numbers, and the employer or state providing coverage. You also need to know the start and end dates of coverage and employment.
Information Related to Medicare Application
Sending Documents
The administration of Social Security requests you to send the original copy of every document.
The preferred method is the postal service. It is suggested to include your Social Security number on a separate sheet of paper inside the envelope. Then, once your application is processed, you will receive your documents back by mail.
What if I Can’t Get Copies?
You should submit your application even if you do not have copies of some of these documents. Social Security can help you find them.
Social Security can often request copies and certification from your state’s Office of Life Statistics. If not, it may help obtain the form you need to acquire the document.
Why Does the Office of Medicare Request these Documents?
The Medicare Office has to examine several aspects of your claim before it can be processed.
With the help of the information provided during the application, your Medicare agent will be able to check all of the information before making a decision.
What does Other Information May Medicare Need?
Your application will ask for your Social Security number, place of birth, marital status, salary earned, surname, the names of your unmarried children under the age of 18, and your criminal record. If your Medicare administrator needs clarification regarding your Medicare documents or application, be prepared to provide additional information.
How Long Do I Have to Wait Before Being Approved?
The Medicare process will vary depending on the complexity of your situation. While Medicare agents try to process all applications promptly, there are times when the application process can take some time. That’s why it’s always a good idea to have all the documents you need to complete your Medicare application without delay.
Typically, if your application is processed without any questions or concerns, you can receive a decision within 7 to 10 days.
How do I Enroll in Medicare?
When you’re ready to sign up, you can choose from the three options and enroll in Medicare.
- Register online at www.socialsecurity.gov/medicareonly: Before starting the process, refer to the online publication “How to Apply Online for Medicare Only.” Social Security promotes using their website as the easiest and fastest way to register. If you have any questions or if your situation is unusual at all, Social Security will assist you.
- Call Social Security at (800) 772-1213 between 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM Monday to Friday: Be aware that you may have to wait for an extended time before talking to someone in person when you call. The agent will then arrange a telephonic appointment with a Social Security contact person, which could be several days or weeks in the future. Keep a note of the people’s names you are talking to and the time/date of your conversation for a record.
- Visit your local Social Security Office: To find an office near you, visit the Social Security Office Locator website and enter your ZIP code. Note that you may have to stay in the Social Security office for some time. If you would like to reduce this waiting time, you can call (800) 772-1213 to set up an appointment. However, some offices may not schedule appointments.
Conclusion
Some people automatically qualify for Original Medicare. However, a person may need to register for different Medicare parts, including Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), Part C, and Part D. There are several enrollment periods throughout the year and a special enrollment period.
In a nutshell, documents required to enroll in Medicare Part A and B include a birth certificate, a driver’s license, and US citizenship or legal residency proof.
If you have any exceptional questions regarding Medicare documents or any doubt related to Medicare, give us a call today. Our experienced insurance agents specializing in Medicare will help you.
