If you already get Social Security benefits, you will automatically be enrolled in Medicare Hospital Insurance (Part A) and Medical Insurance (Part B). The Social Security Administration will mail you all the information you need a few months before you become eligible.
Note: Residents of Puerto Rico or foreign countries won’t automatically receive Part B. They must elect this benefit.
If you don’t get Social Security benefits and are not ready to apply for them yet, you should sign up for Medicare three months before your 65th birthday. The easiest way to apply for Medicare is by using the online application_.
Important Information about Medical Insurance (Part B) Coverage
Because you must pay a premium for Part B coverage, you can turn it down. However, if you decide to sign up for Part B later, your coverage can be delayed and you may have to pay a late enrollment penalty for as long as you have Part B coverage. Your monthly premium will go up 10 percent for each 12-month period you were eligible for Part B, but didn’t sign up for it unless you qualify for a special enrollment period_.
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Starting in April, 2018, Medicare will begin mailing new Medicare cards. Your new card will have a new Medicare number that is unique to you instead of your Social Security number. Visit www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount to make sure Social Security has your current mailing address.
Note: Residents of Puerto Rico or foreign countries won’t automatically receive Part B. They must elect this benefit.
If you don’t get Social Security benefits and are not ready to apply for them yet, you should sign up for Medicare three months before your 65th birthday. The easiest way to apply for Medicare is by using the online application_.
Important Information about Medical Insurance (Part B) Coverage
Because you must pay a premium for Part B coverage, you can turn it down. However, if you decide to sign up for Part B later, your coverage can be delayed and you may have to pay a late enrollment penalty for as long as you have Part B coverage. Your monthly premium will go up 10 percent for each 12-month period you were eligible for Part B, but didn’t sign up for it unless you qualify for a special enrollment period_.
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- To learn about Medicare eligibility or to apply: Visit www.socialsecurity.gov/mediinfo.htm or call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213.
- If you do not sign up for Medicare Part B (medical insurance) when you are first eligible, or if you cancel Part B and then get it later, you may have to pay a late enrollment penalty for as long as you have Part B.
Starting in April, 2018, Medicare will begin mailing new Medicare cards. Your new card will have a new Medicare number that is unique to you instead of your Social Security number. Visit www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount to make sure Social Security has your current mailing address.
