Visit us at our Conway location! 930 Wingate St. Building B, Suite 3 Conway, AR 72034
Medicare Planning and Education
Turning 65? Here's where to start.
Most people become eligible and enroll in Arkansas Medicare at age 65. If you are still working and wish to stay on your employers group health insurance, then you can delay your enrollment for Part B until you retire in the future.
Enrollment periods can very based on your personal situation; however, in general, it is recommended to begin your enrollment process three months before your Medicare coverage is expected to begin. Starting early is one of the best things you can do to ensure a stress-free enrollment. This allows you to get a head-start on your best coverage options with more than enough time to spare for paperwork submission and approval.
When approaching turning 65, it’s important to know what your Initial Enrollment Period or (IEP) is. This is a seven-month period, which begins three months before the month of your 65th birthday, your birthday month, then extends for three months after your birthday month. For example, if you turn 65 on June 25th, then you can submit your enrollment paperwork as early as March 1st.
Below is a chart to easily reference when your enrollment period begins and ends.
5 Important Facts:
- Some people get Medicare automatically, and some have to sign up. You may have to sign up if you’re 65 (or almost 65) and not getting Social Security.
- There are certain times of the year when you can sign up or change how you get your coverage.
- If you sign up for Medicare Part B when you’re first eligible, you can avoid a penalty.
- You can choose how you get your Medicare coverage.
- You may be able to get help with your Medicare costs.
How To Apply
Online
Over the phone
Over the phone
The most common way to apply for Medicare is an online application on the Social Security website. The application process is very easy, and only takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Simply visit the Social Security website by clicking on the image above.
While you wait for your new Medicare card to arrive in the mail, one of our agents can help you learn about your options when it comes to Medicare Supplements, Part D Drug plans or Advantage plans; you will be ready to enroll as soon as you receive your Medicare card.
Over the phone
Over the phone
Over the phone
To apply by phone, contact Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 and let the representative know that you would like to apply for Medicare.
Depending on your personal enrollment situation, they may need to mail you some forms to complete. These forms are relatively simple, but if you have any questions or would like assistance, then feel free to give us a call.
We help clients with this process every day and are more then happy to guide you though the process.
By Mail
In Person
In Person
The best option for those 65+ that already have Medicare Part A, and wish to apply for Part B is completing a paper application.
If this is applicable to you, and you are currently leaving credible group coverage, then there are two forms you will need to complete and mail to your local Social Security office.
Click the link below to access forms
In Person
In Person
In Person
Applying in person at your local Social Security office is the best option for those who are turning 65 and need to get their application processed quickly.
When you are at the Social Security office, be sure to ask for a printed confirmation showing you have enrolled in Part A and Part B. This conformation will allow you complete your Medicare Supplement and/or Part D applications.
You can find the nearest Social Security office to you by clicking on the link below.