How To Apply For Medicare

When To Apply For Medicare For The First Time

You have a seven-month window called the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) to apply for Medicare:

• Three months before the month you turn 65
  
  
• The month you turn 65
  
  
• Three months after the month you turn 65

How Long In Advance Should You Apply For Medicare?

You can apply for Medicare three months before the month you turn 65. Remember, if you are already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits, you will automatically be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B.

How To Apply For Medicare During Different Enrollment Periods

What Documents Do I Need To Apply For Medicare?

When you sign up for Medicare, you might need to provide some documents that show you’re eligible. Medicare and Social Security might already have some of this information when you fill out your Medicare application.

To apply for Medicare, you’ll need:

• Your Social Security Card
  
  
• Your original birth certificate
  
  
• Proof of U.S citizenship or legal citizenship status documentation if you were not born in the U.S.
  
  
• A copy of your W-2 form

You may also need:

• Military documents if you receive military or veteran benefits
  

Know The A, B, C, And Ds of Medicare Coverage

Medicare Part A covers hospital stays and most inpatient services. At 65, you may feel healthy enough to not worry about such coverage. But Part A is important in case you have an unexpected injury or sudden illness that requires inpatient care.

Medicare Part B includes doctor visits, medical tests, X-rays, medical supplies, and preventive care. Part B is your coverage for healthcare visits that help you stay healthy.

A note about Medicare Part A and Part B:
If you’ve heard the term “Original Medicare,” that means Parts A and B. The federal government agency called The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) offers Original Medicare Parts A and B.

Many people find they need more coverage than what CMS offers with Parts A and B. For example, you might want dental, vision, and hearing insurance and/or health and wellness programs. This is where Medicare Parts C and D come in.

You can enroll in Part C or Part D through a private insurance company. CMS does not offer Medicare Part C or Medicare Part D plans.

Medicare Part C (also called a Medicare Advantage plan) is an all-in-one plan that provides Parts A and B coverage, and it often includes prescription drug coverage (Part D).

Medicare Part D covers prescription drugs. It is especially important if you regularly take prescription medications.

How To Apply For Original Medicare Parts A And B

If you’re getting Social Security benefits at least four months before your 65th birthday, you’re automatically enrolled in Parts A and B. The Social Security Administration will send you Medicare information and a Medicare card prior to your 65th birthday.

If you are still working and not receiving Social Security benefits, you can sign up for Medicare at any Social Security office or apply for Medicare online. The Social Security Administration offers a secure online portal where you can apply easily in about 10 minutes.

If you’re still getting healthcare coverage from your employer or your spouse’s employer, you may only need Medicare Part A. This can offset some of the costs your employer’s health plan doesn’t cover.

You can visit our enrollment page for more information.

How to Apply For A Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C Or Part D)

You can opt for a Medicare Advantage plan to make sure you’re also covered for things Part A and Part B do not cover, such as prescription drugs, dental, vision, and hearing aids. 

Medicare Advantage plans also offer other benefits, such as fitness program memberships, money for over-the-counter health-related items, personal home helpers, transportation to doctor visits, and more.

Browse Anthem’s  Medicare Advantage plans to find one that fits your needs for more complete healthcare coverage.

Anthem also offers Part D plans. But remember, Part D is included in most Medicare Advantage plans. If you only need prescription drug coverage, a standalone Part D plan is your best bet.

If you start out with Original Medicare and decide you want a Medicare Advantage plan, you can make that change during your IEP (the seven-month window) or during the Annual Enrollment Period between October 15 and December 7. There are also other life circumstances that give you another window, the Special Enrollment Period, to sign up for Medicare Advantage and Part D plans.

Explore Medicare Plans In Your Area To Find The Right Plan For You.