How Do I Enroll in Medicare?

Hello, North Central Washington from Wenatchee Insurance!

Today, we’re tackling a question that’s as popular as free Costco Samples: “How do I enroll in Medicare?”

It doesn’t matter if you are turning 65 or qualifying through other means like a disability determination, Suzie with Wenatchee Insurance going to help you walk through the process with ease.

Suzie McColm has been assisting people pick plans in Wenatchee for over a decade. Before that, you may have encountered her when she was a Pharmacy Technician. Seeing the struggles first hand, she took on Medicare to improve the lives around her in our Valley and state.

Medicare Enrollment: Your Golden Ticket

We are going to talk about the basics first. Medicare enrollment typically happens in one of three ways:

• Automatic Enrollment
• Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
• Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

Automatic Enrollment: The Easy Street

If you’re already receiving Social Security benefits when you turn 65, you’ll be automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B. It’s like finding a surprise gift in your mailbox! You should receive your Medicare card three months before your 65th birthday along with a ton of marketing materials.

Yes, you will get a forest of envelopes from Medicare salespeople trying to sell you their plan. Suzie is here to walk people through the choices to make an informed decision.

 If you want Part D (prescription drug coverage) or a Medicare Advantage plan, you’ll need to enroll separately.

Enrollment Medicare Example!

Imagine Mike, who has been receiving Social Security benefits for a couple of years. He doesn’t need to lift a finger – her Medicare card arrives just in time for her 65th birthday bash.

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): The First-Time Fun

If you’re not automatically enrolled, don’t worry! The IEP is your chance to join the Medicare party. This period starts three months before your 65th birthday, includes your birthday month, and extends three months after. That’s a seven-month window to sign up for Medicare Parts A and B.

Enrollment Medicare Example!

Picture Tom, who’s turning 65 in July. His IEP runs from April to October. Tom decides to sign up in June to avoid any last-minute rush. Smart move, Tom!

Special Enrollment Period (SEP): The Backup Plan

For those who miss the IEP or have specific circumstances, the SEP is a lifesaver. We see many folks with an employer health plan that can delay Medicare without penalty. Once your employment ends or you lose coverage, the SEP kicks in, giving you eight months to enroll in Parts A and B.

Enrollment Medicare Example!

Meet Linda, who’s been happily working past 65 with employer-provided health insurance. When she retires at 68, she has an eight-month SEP to enroll in Medicare without facing late penalties.

Step-by-Step Enrollment Guide

You will want to have a couple of things on hand before you start. Gather these documents before enrolling:

Social Security number

Birth certificate

Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency

W-2 forms or self-employment tax returns for the previous year

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s automatic, during your IEP, or through a SEP, enrolling in Medicare is your ticket to comprehensive health coverage. Suzie with Wenatchee Insurance is here to guide you through every step, ensuring you understand your options and make the best choice for your health needs.

Remember, enrolling in Medicare doesn’t have to feel like Rocket Science. With Suzie and Wenatchee Insurance by your side, you will have guidance every step of the way to make an informed decision. Stay tuned for more helpful tips and friendly advice!

Topics: Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Suzie, Wenatchee Insurance, SSDI, ESRD, Hospital Insurance, Prescription Drug Coverage, Part D, Medical Insurance, Disability,