How Do I Apply for Medicare in Florida?

You must apply for Original Medicare if you are not receiving Social Security benefits. This can be done in three ways:

• By calling the Social Security Administration - you can reach them at 1-800-772-1213 for enrollment queries or to determine your eligibility.
• By visiting the Social Security website, which can be found at www.socialsecurity.gov.
• In person at your local Social Security office.

You can also make use of the Medicare Eligibility Tool found on medicare.gov. This tool can assist in confirming if you qualify for Medicare and inform you when you can enroll.

Already Receive Benefits From Social Security?

If you currently receive Social Security benefits, you will automatically be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B (Original Medicare) when you turn 65. In this case, you will receive your Medicare card three months before your 65th birthday. Your coverage begins on the first day of the month that you turn 65.

Under Age 65 and Disabled?

If you are under age 65 and have a disability, you will automatically be enrolled in Medicare Part A and B after receiving Social Security disability benefits for 24 months. You will receive your Medicare card in the mail on the 25th month of receiving disability benefits. Your coverage begins on the first day of the 25th month.

When Should I Apply?

The Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is crucial for Medicare signups. It spans seven months, beginning three months before you turn 65, includes the month you turn 65, and ends three months after your birthday month. For instance, if your birthday is in June, your IEP would run from March through September. It is important to apply during this time because insurance companies cannot deny you coverage or charge more overall, even if you have health problems. If you delay applying until after your IEP, you may face issues receiving coverage.

It's recommended to apply as early as possible within this period to prevent any delays in coverage. If you apply during the three months before you turn 65, your coverage will start the first day of your birthday month. In the case that your birthday is on the first day of the month, your coverage will start on the first day of the prior month.

Medicare Part D Enrollment

Medicare Part D is an optional prescription drug plan provided by private insurers. This plan helps provide beneficiaries extra financial help covering prescription drugs that Medicare does not cover. You can enroll in a Part D plan when you first become eligible for Medicare (during your IEP) or during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) each year from October 15 to December 7.

Bottom Line

If you are already receiving Social Security benefits when you turn 65 or have a disability, you will be automatically enrolled in both Medicare Part A and Part B. The government takes care of this process for you, and you will receive your Medicare card in the mail three months before your 65th birthday or in the 25th month of receiving disability benefits.

If you are not receiving Social Security benefits, you will need to apply for Medicare yourself. You can do this online, by phone, or in person. It's crucial to apply during the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) which spans seven months and begins three months before your 65th birthday month.