Does Social Security Automatically Send You a Medicare Card When You Turn 65?

Understanding the Process

What Happens When You Turn 65?

As you approach the Medicare at age 65, it’s natural to have questions about the benefits and services that come with enrolling into Medicare. One common question that often arises is whether you’ll be automatically enrolled and if Social Security will automatically send you a Medicare card once before you turn 65. In this article, we will explore the details to provide you with a clear understanding of what you can expect.

The Medicare Enrollment Process

Generally, Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for individuals aged 65 and older, but there are times when people under the age of 65 may be eligible for Medicare. The Medicare Enrollment process can be confusing because some people are automatically enrolled into Original Medicare and some are not, depending on your individual circumstances.

When to Enroll in Medicare

To ensure you receive the benefits of Medicare, it’s important to know the enrollment periods. The Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) starts three months before your 65th birthday month and continues for three months after. It is during this time that you can sign up for Medicare Parts A and B. Missing this window may result in penalties and delayed coverage. If you are under the age of 65, but are receiving Social Security Disability Benefits for 24 Months, you may be eligible to enroll in Medicare in your 25th month of disability benefits.

Social Security Disability Benefits Matter

What If You’re Already Receiving Social Security Benefits?

If you are already receiving Social Security benefits in the months before you turn 65, you will be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B. In this case, you can expect to receive your Medicare card in the mail three months prior to your 65th birthday. The card will provide details about the coverage and benefits you are entitled to.

What If You Are Not Receiving Social Security Benefits?

If you are not receiving social security benefits when you turn 65, you will not be enrolled into Medicare automatically and you will need to enroll yourself.

How to Enroll in Medicare

Enrolling in Medicare is a simple process and offers several options:

1. Online Enrollment: You can visit the official Social Security website or the Medicare website to complete your enrollment online. You’ll need to create a free account to sign up for Medicare.

2. Phone Enrollment: Another option is to call Social Security at their toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), where a representative can guide you through the enrollment process.

3. In-Person Enrollment: If you prefer a face-to-face interaction, you can visit your local Social Security office to apply in person. Ensure you check their operating hours and bring the necessary documentation.

What If You Delayed Social Security Benefits?

In the event that you didn’t sign up and have chosen to delay your Social Security retirement benefits beyond the age of 65, you will still need to take the initiative to enroll in Medicare during the Initial Enrollment Period mentioned earlier.

Conclusion

To summarize, it is important to note that Social Security does not always automatically send you a Medicare card when you turn 65. It is your responsibility to proactively enroll in Medicare during the appropriate enrollment period.

If you have further questions or need assistance with the Medicare enrollment process, call Nick Boushay at Senior Medicare Reviews at (888) 508-1781.

Remember, understanding and taking control of your Medicare benefits will empower you to make informed decisions regarding your healthcare options as you enjoy your retirement years.