Medicare Questions & Answers: Social Security
Social Security Q&A
Showing 9 questions
What happens if I am already retired and collecting Social Security when I turn 65?
If you are already retired AND collecting Social Security, congratulations! A few months ahead of your birth month you will be AUTOMATICALLY enrolled in Medicare A and B. Among the piles of literature you receive from health insurance companies, you will be sent a card in the mail showing your Medicare ID# and effective dates (the month you turn 65). If you plan on using Medicare as your health insurance moving forward you do not need to take any further action.
How do Social Security and Medicare work together for people with disabilities?
For people with disabilities, Social Security and Medicare are closely connected. If you're under 65 and approved for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you’ll automatically become eligible for Medicare after receiving disability benefits for 24 months. At that point, you’ll be enrolled in both Part A and Part B. If you have ALS, Medicare starts right away with no waiting period. Your Part B premium will typically be deducted from your Social Security check, just like it is for those 65 and older. From there, you can choose to add a Medicare Advantage or Part D drug plan—or even a supplement, depending on your situation. It's a complex process, but having someone guide you through your options can really make it easier.
I'm planning to delay Social Security until age 70, but I'm turning 65 soon. How does this affect my Medicare enrollment?
You can still enroll at 65. You will need to do this from the SSA website or by visitin your SSA office.If you don't enroll at 65 and don't have coverage through a group plan you will be penalized 1% per month for each month you don't have coverage.
You will be billed by Medicare for your part B premium 3 months at a time.
