There are many things confusing about Medicare, even the simple things such as “How do I sign up?” and “How can I confirm I’m enrolled in Medicare?”
In this week’s blog I will share with you exactly how enrollment works and how to confirm your enrollment status.
If you started drawing Social Security at, or prior to, age 65, you will be automatically signed up for Medicare Parts A and B. If you fall into this category, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and Social Security will notify you of your enrollment.
If you are not drawing Social Security, you will need to enroll in Medicare on your own.
There are several ways you can enroll in Medicare including:
-making an appointment with the Social Security office , or
-completing your enrollment online by visiting the Social Security website
Once you sign up for Medicare, it’s important to verify your enrollment before proceeding with any other Medicare insurance components.
For example; if your Medicare enrollment has not been processed, then your Medicare Part D prescription plan application will be rejected.
The best way to verify, and track, your Medicare enrollment is by creating an individual account on Social Security’s website. This account will also provide you information about Medicare claims and your Social Security benefit.
Another way to verify the status of your Medicare enrollment is by going directly to Medicare’s website: www.medicare.gov.
From the homepage, under the “Sign Up/Change Plans” tab; select the “Check your enrollment” option. Provide the required information and the website will provide you with a generic answer as to whether or not you are currently enrolled in Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage.
Now you know how to enroll in Medicare and check your status…without going to the Social Security office or waiting on hold.
If you have more questions on this or other Medicare questions, please email me at larry@mymedicarecoach.com
