How to Register for Medicare Health Insurance

Medicare is the government-paid insurance program for seniors (over age 65). But like many government programs, its a complex system of parts (A, B, C and D) and eligibility requirements. Here are some tips to registering for Medicare Health Insurance.

Instructions

Medicare Health Insurance

• 1

  Determine if you're eligible for Medicare. Part A Medicare (hospital insurance) is reserved for U.S. citizens over the age of 65, or who worked and are eligible for Social Security, or are eligible for railroad retirement benefits, or worked in a government job where Medicare taxes were paid. People under 65 can get Medicare Part A if they meet disability eligibility requirements. Part B Medicare (medical insurance) is available for a monthly fee to any U.S. citizen over the age of 65. The Medicare Office online has a special eligibility tool to help you determine if you qualify for Medicare: http://www.medicare.gov/MedicareEligibility/home.asp?version=default&browser=Firefox|3.5|Windows+Vista&language=English

• 2

  Make sure you're in the right enrollment period. Medicare has rules about when you can apply. You can apply up to three months before your 65th birthday. If you let more than three months pass after your 65th birthday, you'll have to wait to apply until the general enrollment period (January through March).

• 3

  Contact the Social Security Administration at 800-772-1213 from 7 AM to 7 PM weekdays to start the application process. The representative will take your information for the application. You'll be contacted later by your local Social Security office when your Medicare Card is ready.

• 4

  Visit your local Social Security office to pick up your Medicare Card. Bring a something that proves your age or eligibility, such as a driver's license or passport, or doctor's reports if you are eligible because of disability. Also have your Social Security card and proof of other insurance, if you have any.