Applying for Medicare benefits used to mean driving to your local Social Security office, waiting your turn for a face-to-face meeting with a Social Security representative, and then filling out a bunch of paperwork. Not anymore.
With the help of the Internet, the Social Security Administration has streamlined the Medicare application process, making it convenient, quick and easy for qualified seniors to apply online for Medicare benefits—even if they're not ready to retire.
How Do I Apply Online for Medicare Benefits?
Applying online for Medicare benefits is easy. You just go to the online Medicare application, read the instructions, gather any information you need, and then fill out the online form.
The Social Security Administration estimates that the whole process can take less than 10 minutes or as much as half an hour, but the average time is about 15 minutes.
Once your application is submitted electronically that's usually all there is to it. In most cases, there are no forms to sign and no documentation is required.
The Social Security Administration simply processes your online application, contacts you directly if they need more information, and mails your Medicare card when it's ready.
Who Can Apply Online for Medicare Benefits?
You don't have to be retired or even planning to retire in the near future to sign up for Medicare benefits.
You can use the online Medicare application if you:
- are at least 64 years and 8 months old;
- want to sign up for Medicare;
- do not want to start receiving Social Security benefits in the next four months; and
- live in the United States or one of its commonwealths or territories (applicants who live outside the United States should contact the nearest U.S. Social Security office, or the U.S. embassy or consulate for their area).
What If I Want to Apply for Medicare, but Not Social Security?
If you plan to delay receiving Social Security retirement benefits until you are past the age of 65, you can still apply for Medicare benefits only.
To make sure you understand how such a decision may affect your income and your medical coverage, however, be sure to review the information in the Social Security Retirement Planner titled, Applying for Medicare Only—Before You Decide.