How Do I Apply For Medicare?

Anonymous User
Associate
House Staff
RN (NYSNA)
RN (1199)
1199
Local 30
Ret Mgmt
Ret RN

If you enroll for Social Security benefits before age 65, you will automatically be enrolled for Medicare when you become eligible (generally at age 65). If you plan to enroll for Social Security benefits after you are age 65, you should apply for Medicare three months before you turn age 65.

  • You can choose Original Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance). Part A covers inpatient hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some home health care. Part B covers certain doctors' services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services. If you want prescription drug coverage, you may also join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D).
    or
  • You can choose to join a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C). A Medicare Advantage Plan is a type of Medicare health plan offered by a private company that contracts with Medicare to provide you with all your hospital and medical benefits.
    or
  • You may be able to join other types of Medicare health plan.

Each year, you have a chance to make changes to your Medicare Advantage or Medicare prescription drug coverage for the following year.