Are You Ready For Medicare?

Informative article outlining how to determine if you are ready to start collecting government Medicare benefits

There are a limited number of conditions and situations that qualify individuals to receive Medicare benefits. This makes it relatively easy to answer the question, “Are you ready for Medicare?” Individuals who are 65 years of age or older automatically qualify for this government administered health insurance. Seniors already receiving social security benefits should be automatically enrolled into Medicare. These individuals should get a Medicare insurance card three months before their 65th birthday. Benefits don’t become active until the first day of the month of your birthday, however. Those not already receiving social security and who are approaching their 65th birthday are required to contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) to sign-up for Medicare benefits.

Disease Diagnoses that Qualify for Medicare

If you are wondering if you are ready for Medicare, the answer is yes, if you have a diagnosis of Lou Gehrig’s Disease (ALS) or end-stage renal disease. There’s no waiting period for individuals that have been diagnosed with ALS. Individuals with end-stage renal disease that require a kidney transplant or dialysis will likely have to wait until three months after dialysis has been initiated to get Medicare benefits.

Are You Ready for Medicare if You Are Disabled?

Individuals who receive Social Security benefits for disabilities other than ALS or kidney disease typically have a waiting period of two years after they have qualified for Social Security Disability benefits. The SSA typically enrolls these individuals automatically for the Medicare program when the waiting period. If this doesn’t occur, individuals should contact the SSA for further information.

Are You Ready for Medicare Enrollment?

If you determine that you need to contact the SSA to initiate the Medicare enrollment process, there are several ways to get in touch with the office. The Medicare process can started by accessing the SSA website at www.ssa.gov or by calling (800) 772-1213. It’s also possible to get enrolled in Medicare by visiting your local SSA office.

Related posts

1. How Do I Signup For Medicare?
2. Will I Automatically Be Enrolled In Medicare When I Turn 65?
3. When Does Medicare Becomes Effective?
4. How Do I Apply For Medicare?
5. When Is The Open Enrollment Period For Medicare?

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