We have clients who bring out entire bags of mail that they never even opened because the volume was so overwhelming and they didn’t understand what they were reading.

If you are new to Medicare, you might feel the same way. With all the parts and plans to Medicare and the endless commercials and mailings, it can be hard to get things straight in your mind. How does this work?

When Do You Get Medicare?

While most people start Medicare when they turn 65 years old, you can also gain access to Medicare before age 65 by virtue of a qualifying disability or by developing certain conditions such as ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) or ESRD (End Stage Renal Disease). You could also be considered “new” if you delayed Medicare, continued working past age 65, and remained on your employer group health plan. You may have even heard that you could be fined or penalized by not signing up when you are eligible!

When it is time for Medicare, it can seem overwhelming and that is too bad because it shouldn’t be. For many, signing up for Medicare is the first time in a long time that they have affordable health coverage. The process of choosing your Medicare health plan should be exciting, not scary or confusing.

We make it Clear…We make it Easy

Who Can Get Medicare?

You must be a citizen or legal residents. A legal resident must have lived in the United States for at least 5 years in a row including the 5 years immediately preceding applying for Medicare. You must also be:

• Age 65 or older
  • Younger than 65 with a qualifying disability
  • Any age and diagnosed with ALS or ESRD

What Are The Parts of Medicare?

Part A – Helps pay for hospital stays, inpatient care, hospice, and skilled nursing.

Part B – Helps pay for doctor visits, testing and outpatient care

Parts A& B are commonly known as “Original Medicare”

Part C – Combines Part A and B of Medicare into one plan and is offered by private companies. These plans usually include prescription drug coverage.

Part D – Helps pay for prescription drugs. Can be accessed as a “stand alone” plan with Original Medicare (A&B) or as part of a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C).

How Do I Enroll?

If you are receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits, enrollment in Medicare is automatic when you become eligible. You will get your card in the mail.

If, however, you are not receiving benefits, you will have to enroll yourself when you become eligible. You can enroll online, call or visit the local Social Security office.