MEDICARE - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is Original Medicare?
Original Medicare (aka “Traditional Medicare”) consists of two parts (Part A and Part B) and is the primary payer of your coverage.
How much will my Medicare Part A cost?
For most, there is no monthly cost for Part A and that is why it is often referred to as "premium-free". If you have to buy Part A, you'll pay up to $506 per month in 2023. Learn more about Part A costs.
What does Medicare Part A cover?
Medicare Part A, often referred to as "Hospital Insurance", covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, lab tests, surgery and home health care.
How much will my Medicare Part B cost?
The Medicare Part B standard or base premium for 2023 is $164.90 per month. Most people will pay this amount, but if your modified adjusted gross income is about a certain level you’ll pay the standard premium plus an income-related monthly adjustment amount (IRMAA). Learn more about Part B costs.
What does Medicare Part B cover?
Medicare Part B, often referred to as "Medical Insurance", covers doctors and medical providers' services, outpatient care, durable medical equipment, home health care, and some preventive care.
What is a Medicare supplement plan?
Medicare supplement plans, also known as “Medigap” coverage, can cover the gaps not covered by Original Medicare such as deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. Learn more about the 10 standardized Medicare supplement plans.
How do I apply for Medicare?
Social Security processes Medicare enrollments and offers you several options for your enrollment. You can apply over the phone, in-person, or through the mail. Learn more about How to Apply for Medicare.
Medicare Initial Enrollment Period
If you're new to Medicare, understanding when to enroll is important and can help you avoid late enrollment penalties and prevent gaps in your coverage.
Initial Enrollment Period
The Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is the first time you can sign up for Medicare. It goes for 7 months; beginning 3 months before the month you turn 65 and lasting 3 months after your 65th birthday month.
For example, if your 65th birthday is in June, your Initial Enrollment Period begins March 1 and will end September 30.
How to apply for Medicare?
The Social Security office handles the Medicare enrollment, and offers you several easy options for your enrollment.
- Online through Social Security
- Phone: Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY users 1-800-325-0778)
- In-person at your local Social Security Office
What happens after I apply?
Once Social Security receives your application, they will:
- Review your application and contact you if they need any additional information or documents
- Mail you a decision letter
- Mail you a Welcome to Medicare packet with your Medicare ID card
It usually takes about 3 weeks for your Medicare card to arrive in the mail. While you wait, we can help you learn about coverage options such as Medicare supplements (Medigap), Medicare Advantage, and prescription drug plans (Part D).
3 Ways to Apply for Medicare
Online
In-person
Online
You can typically enroll in less than ten minutes through the online application.
Phone
In-person
Online
You can call Social Security and schedule an appointment for a phone interview.
In-person
In-person
In-person
Apply at your local Social Security office by walking in or calling and scheduling an appointment.
Medicare Supplements (Medigap)
Medicare supplement plans can help pay some of the out-of-pocket costs that are not covered by Medicare Parts A and B.
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Medicare Advantage is a type of Medicare plan that is available through private companies that are approved by Medicare.