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Enrolling In Medicare Part A & B
PART A & B
Enrolling In Medicare Part A & B - Step 2
Now that we know our timing for applying to Medicare, it's time to get Part A & Part B. But before we learn how to enroll in Part A & Part B, let's define what they are.
Part B (Medical Insurance)
Part B helps cover services from doctors and other health care providers, outpatient care, home health care, durable medical equipment (like wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, and other equipment), and many preventative services (like screenings, shots or vaccines, and yearly "wellness" visits). Part B has a premium. In 2024 the premium for most people will be $174.70 per month. Part B also has 20% coinsurance, which means that you pay 20% of the bill every time.
(Don't worry....we have good news on how to cover this coming in Step 3 - Choosing A Plan).
* Another note on Part B:
If you choose not to enroll in Part B when you are first eligible and then you need to enroll later, it begins to accrue a Part B Penalty. Part B Penalties are 10% of the annual premium for Part B for every year you went without it. This penalty is paid monthly and it is paid for as long as you have Part B. In most cases this is the rest of your life. You will need medical care at some point so we always recommend getting Part B as soon as you are eligible.
Ways To Sign Up
Online (at Social Security) - It's the easiest and fastest way to sign up and get any financial help you may need. (You'll need to create your secure my Social Security account to sign up for Medicare or apply for benefits).
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213. TTY users can call 1-800-325 0778.
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Contact your local Social Security office.
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If you or your spouse worked for a railroad, call the Railroad Retirement Board at 1-877-772-5772.
About 2 weeks after you sign up, you will get a welcome package in the mail with your Medicare card.
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