When can I sign up for Medicare Part A and B?
Up to 4 months before your birthday month.

When will Medicare Part A and B take effect?
If you applied before age 65 – the effective date is on the month you turn 65 or if your birthday falls on the 1st, it would be the month before you turn 65.
If you applied during or after 65, your coverage starts the next month.

How do I apply for Medicare Part A and B? There are 3 steps to this process.

1) You can apply for Medicare online at ssa.gov or you can apply by phone (800-772-1213) and you will then get an appointment at your local Social Security office. Do not visit your local SS office because, since COVID, they will only accept an appointment set up by phone. It could take up to 3 months to get your Medicare card.

2) After you get your Medicare card in the mail, you will then create an online account on Medicare.gov. Creating this online account will get you a summary of your current coverage, add your drugs and pharmacies, use your saved drugs and pharmacies to compare plan costs, and more.

3) The last step is to call your local Medicare agent (619-800-5736) who will help find the best plan for you.

How long does it take to get my Medicare card?
It can take up to 3 months so plan ahead.

What do Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D mean?
Medicare Part A is hospital insurance, Part B is medical insurance, Part C is Medicare Advantage (usually combines Part A, B, and D into one simple plan), and Part D is prescription drug coverage.

When can I enroll in Medicare Advantage?
Annual Enroll Period  (Oct. 15th to Dec. 7th), Open Enrollment Period (Jan. 1st to March 31st), and any special enrollment period.

When can I enroll in Medicare Supplement?
Anytime, as long as you have Medicare Part A and B.

What do I need to do before I can enroll in Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement?
Enroll in Medicare Part A and B. This process can take up to 3 months and you can do this 4 months before your birthday month.

How long is the enrollment period for Medicare Advantage?
It is a total of 7 months, 3 months before your birthday, your birthday month, and 3 months after your birthday.

How can I pay for Medicare Part B premium?
Sign up for your Medicare account on Medicare.gov. You will also be able to sign up for Easy Pay, print your Medicare card or request a new card, and more. If you receive social security benefits monthly, the Part B premium will automatically be deducted from it.