Counseling Locations and Appointments
Last Updated:
3/12/03
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ's)
What is Medicare?
Medicare is a Federal health insurance program for people 65 years or older, disabled individuals under age 65, and people with permanent kidney failure. Medicare has two parts - Part A which is hospital insurance, and Part B which is medical insurance.
Will I automatically be enrolled in Medicare?
If you are receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement or disability benefits, you will be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B. About 3 months prior to your 65th birthday or 24th month of disability, you will be sent an Initial Enrollment Package that will contain information about Medicare and a questionnaire. If you do not want Medicare Part B coverage, you must put an X in the appropriate box, sign the form and return it to Social Security at the address shown. You will be sent a Medicare card showing in which parts of Medicare you are enrolled.
What if I don't take Part B of Medicare when I am first eligible?
If you did not take Part B of Medicare when you were first eligible because you or your spouse was working and covered by group health insurance through your or your spouse's employer, you can sign up for Part B during a Special Enrollment Period.
If you did not take Part B when you were first eligible for Medicare at age 65, you may sign up during a General Enrollment Period. This period runs from January 1 through March 31 of each year. The cost of Medicare Part B may go up 10% for each 12 month period that you could have had Part B but did not take it. Your Part B coverage would become effective the following July and you will have to pay the extra 10% for the rest of your life.