Signing up for Medicare is very easy. Most people will not need any supporting documentation or special forms to complete the application. Plus, since the Social Security Administration (SSA) lets you enroll in Medicare online, you can complete the entire application from anywhere and at any time.
If you are under 65 and have a disability, you will only be eligible for Medicare enrollment when you meet one of the following conditions:
- You have received disability benefits through the Social Security office for at least 2 years.
- You have received disability benefits through the Railroad Retirement Board for at least 2 years.
Once you meet these requirements, you will be automatically enrolled in Original Medicare (that’s Part A and Part B).
If you have amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS or “Lou Gehrig’s disease”), you will be automatically enrolled in Medicare on the month that you start receiving disability benefits.
Keep in mind that even though Part A hospital insurance usually does not require you to pay any monthly premiums, Part B medical insurance will. However, these premiums are typically quite low compared to what you would normally pay with private insurance.
If you are tight on money and are worried that you will not be able to afford Medicare Part B premiums, you can delay coverage. However, be aware that signing up for Part B after your initial eligibility period has ended may result in lifetime penalty fees that will be added to your premium every month.
To apply for Medicare, you don’t have to worry about being prepared with documentation. All you have to do is:
- Visit the SSA’s online Medicare application portal.
- Complete the Medicare application by filling in the required information.
- Submit your application with a simple click.
Stop paying too much for medical services you’re entitled to receive. You could get all the medical benefits you need by applying for Medicare with the SSA today!
