6 thoughts on “When to Sign Up for Medicare – Avoid a Delay in Coverage

  1. Can I access Medicare.gov before signing up for Medicare and do I have to sign up for Medicare via the Social Security site?

    • Hi George…you can access Medicare.gov before signing up for Medicare. In fact, the website is full of valuable information. The only thing you may have to wait for is access to your mymedicare.gov account. As for Medicare enrollment, you don’t have to sign up via the Social Security website. You can visit your local office or call Social Security directly 1-800-772-1213. I hope that helps. Please feel free to reach out if you have more questions. email: [email protected]

  2. I turned 65 yrs. in September 2017 and was told I had to work ten years before applying for Medicare, which will be in February 2018. Will I be able to apply for Medicare right now or do I have to wait to apply in February without any penalties ?

    • Hi Jennifer…your Initial Enrollment Period ends December 31, 2017. I would definitely submit your Medicare application before the year’s end; otherwise, you’ll miss your opportunity to get Medicare started in February. Note, if you miss the Initial Enrollment Period and don’t qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, then you’ll have to sign up during the General Enrollment Period (Jan 1 – Mar 31) with Medicare starting July 1. As for a penalty, you’re fine right now because you’re still in the Initial Enrollment Period, but once it ends you are susceptible to a late enrollment penalty. I know this is a lot of information…dates…and deadlines. If you feel like chatting about your situation, please feel free to call me Monday 888-411-1329.

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