Where you start with Medicare determines what steps you would need to take to get your Medicare coverage started.

• If you’re pulling Social Security either by way of disability or traditional SS payments more than 4 months before your 65th birthday, you should get your Medicare card automatically in the mail. The card will show up between 3-6 months before your birth month.
• If you’re not already receiving Social Security payments, you’ll need to contact the Social Security Administration 3 months before your birth month to apply for Medicare Part A and Part B (unless you are also qualified for employer coverage – not all employer plans are creditable, but always check your options first). You can start that process here or you can make an appointment with your local SSA office .
• In either situation, either now or once you receive your Medicare Beneficiary Identifier (MBI) number, contact us! We can help you understand the ins and outs of this transition.

Next: Medicare and Employer Plans