It's a lot, I know. You are going to be inundated with mail from various carriers and agents who want you to work with them. This can be a very overwhelming time with a lot of information to process.
I am going to tell you exactly what you need to do, in a clear and concise manner for those of you who just want to do it. (There will be another more detailed blog shortly which will explain why you need Medicare and everything that goes along with it.)
Three months before you turn 65, you need to apply for Medicare Part A and Part B. We suggest starting earlier rather than later, as the Social Security Administration (that handles Medicare) is grossly understaffed.
To apply, you can do one of the following:
Go to the Social Security website here. You will create and account with Social Security to apply for Medicare through this link. It will also give you the option to collect social security. You do not need to collect when you do this application if you do not want to.
Call the national number at 1-800-772-1213 and apply over the phone. The phone number for the Redding office is 1-866-964-1236.
You can also apply in person at your local Social Security office, however they will most likely ask you to make an appointment.
Once you have your Medicare card, or your award letter with your Medicare number and Part A and B effective dates, you will need to purchase a prescription drug plan and a Medicare supplement plan. Depending on where you live, you might be interested in a Medicare Advantage Plan instead.
Don't just sign up for the first thing that comes in the mail. That is the biggest mistake people make, they enroll without research (or choose what a friend has) and often wind up spending a lot more money than they need to.
This is where we come in. We will help you find the most cost-efficient plan for your bottom line- not ours! It is our job to guide and provide you with the best possible information so that you can make an informed decision.
Thank you for reading, and don't forget to subscribe!
