How to Sign-Up for Medicare

July 5, 2019 | Sara Rosas

Signing up for Medicare is confusing and hard to navigate on your own. Our how-to guide details the steps involved and information needed to sign up for Medicare.

Know When You Can Sign-Up for Medicare 

Some people are automatically enrolled in Medicare but others may have to apply for Medicare shortly before they turn 65. You can be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B if you start receiving Social Security Income prior to 65. Call us at 1-800-507-6778 for details. 

If you are not eligible to be automatically enrolled, you can apply during the Initial Enrollment Period. If you are eligible for Medicare when you turn 65, you can sign up during the seven month period that begins three months before the month you turn 65, includes the month you turn 65, or ends three months after the month you turn 65. It’s important to keep in mind that if you wait to sign up until the month you turn 65 (or the three months after you turn 65), your Part B coverage will be delayed. You can decide to delay your Medicare if you are working and have creditable coverage through your employer. To determine if this is the right option for you give us a call to set up a consultation.

Know What Medicare Coverage You Need 

There are several parts to Medicare. Medicare Part A is for inpatient hospital coverage and can help pay for hospice care services and inpatient hospital care. Medicare Part B covers medically necessary services like lab tests and surgeries. Medicare Part C provides coverage through private insurance companies instead of through the government. Medicare Part C is commonly referred to as a Medicare Advantage Plan. Finally, Medicare Part D is prescription drug coverage, also available through a private insurance company. If you would like to learn more about the various Medicare Plans, set up an appointment with one of our agents or attend a Twin City Underwriters Workshop.  

Select Your Coverage Option 

Now that you know a little bit more about Medicare, you can start your decision process. What type of coverage is best for you? You can choose Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare Supplement plans or maybe staying on your employer coverage is best for you. Meet with a Twin City Underwriters agent and let them help you decide.  

Sign-Up Online 

Applying for Medicare can be easy, but it can be difficult to choose a plan. You can sign- up for Medicare online at the Social Security website or you could set up a meeting with one of our agents to walk you through the sign-up process in person. 

Do you have additional questions about signing up for Medicare and choosing a Medicare plan? Attend one of our informational Medicare workshops throughout the state of Minnesota and free one-on-one meetings with agents where you can ask questions and get personal answers.  

References: 

https://www.medicare.gov/sign-up-change-plans/how-do-i-get-parts-a-b/part-a-part-b-sign-up-periods 

https://www.medicare.gov/sign-up-change-plans/getting-started-with-medicare