When to Apply for Medicare

Before we discuss the benefits of applying online for Medicare, let’s first take a look at when you should apply. There are several different enrollment periods to be aware of depending on different scenarios and situations.  Your first opportunity to enroll in Medicare is during the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP).  This enrollment period runs for seven months beginning three months prior to your 65th birthday, through your birth month, and ends three months after.  If you choose to delay enrollment because you have healthcare coverage through your current employer, you will need to apply during a Special Enrollment Period (SPE), which begins the month after your employment insurance ends.

Benefits of Applying Online

You can apply for Medicare coverage by phone, in person, or online. Applying for Medicare online offers several advantages such as:

• Immediate Access
  The online Medicare application can be completed at any time making it extremely convenient.  Other ways of applying require appointments or long wait times.
• Quicker Processing
  Once you complete your online application it is submitted instantly to Social Security for review.
• Fewer Mistakes
  We’ve all had experiences when information has gotten lost in translation.  When you apply online for Medicare you are in control of the information which typically results in fewer mistakes or errors.
• Doesn’t Require Travel
  You can apply for Medicare online from the comfort of your home or anywhere you have access to a computer.

• Saves Time and Money
  The convenience of applying online from the comfort of your home will save on transportation costs as well as travel and wait times.

Who Should Apply for Medicare online?

According to ssa.gov, you should apply for Medicare online if:

• You are within 3 months of turning 65 years of age, or if you are eligible for your Initial Enrollment Period.

   

• You wish to receive Medicare benefits and do not currently have Medicare coverage.
• You are not currently receiving SSI benefits.
• You reside in the United States or in one of its territories.

How to Apply Online

The application for Medicare enrollment can be completed online at ssa.gov. The application process typically takes between ten and thirty minutes to complete.  When you are ready to apply for Medicare simply follow these steps as outlined on ssa.gov:

1. Before applying review the “Checklist for Online Applications” to find out what you will need to start the application.

    

2. Visit ssa.gov and select “Apply for Medicare Only”
3. Fill out all the necessary information.  Click the “related information” links if you need help while filling out the application.
4. Select “Submit Now” to complete the application.

After your application is completed you will receive a receipt acknowledging acceptance.  Keep the receipt for your records.  You’ll also receive an application number you can use to check the status of your application.  Once your application has been processed, you will receive a letter in the mail with a decision.