How do I enroll in Medicare?

on Feb 22, 2024

Now let’s go over how to apply online at www.ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up and what information you’ll need to enroll:

1. Name, Social Security number, gender, and date of birth

2. Contact information including address, phone number, email address

3. Citizen information about you with what language you read and speak

4. Questions about your health benefits

5. Then submit your application online and view your receipt, which will alert you to any additional information required, such as your marriage license if you are short of the required 40 quarters and need to apply under your spouse’s Medicare benefits, or original citizenship papers if you are a naturalized citizen

6. Your Beneficiary Verification Letter will be available on your Social Security account when your Medicare application is processed. The BVL includes your Medicare number and Part A and/or B effective dates. Your new Medicare card will arrive by mail, or you can download your Medicare card by going to medicare.gov and accessing your Medicare account. Your Medicare.gov account contains all your Medicare information.

Readers, there are specific Medicare rules which everyone must follow. Remember what we say at Toni Says: What you don’t know about Medicare WILL hurt you!

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Toni King is an author and columnist on Medicare and health insurance issues. She has spent nearly 30 years as a top sales leader in the field. If you have a Medicare question, email info@tonisays.com or call 832-519-8664. Visit www.seniorresource.com/medicaremoments to listen to Toni’s Medicare Moments podcasts. Toni’s new course, Confused about Medicare, a downloadable video series, and the “Medicare Survival Guide Advanced” edition are both available at www.tonisays.com.