Can Social Security office answer questions about Medicare?

Asked by: Daphney Robel  |  Last update: August 25, 2023
Score: 4.8/5 (35 votes)

Although the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is the agency in charge of the Medicare program, Social Security processes your application for Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). We provide general information about the Medicare program and can help you get a replacement Medicare card.

How do I get my Medicare questions answered?

Do you have questions about your Medicare coverage? 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) can help. TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048. What should I have ready when I call 1-800-MEDICARE?

Do I call my local Social Security office to apply for Medicare?

The easiest way to apply for Medicare is by using our online application or you can make an appointment by calling us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information read our Medicare publication.

Does Social Security have anything to do with Medicare?

You'll sign up for Medicare Part A and Part B through Social Security. You can learn more and sign up for other parts at Medicare.gov.

Should I call Social Security about Medicare?

Contact Social Security to: See if you're eligible for Medicare; Create a my Social Security account to do things like request a replacement Medicare card and report a change of address, name, or phone number; Sign up for Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance);

Unravel the Mystery: Top 5 Medicare Questions Answered

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How do I get the $16728 Social Security bonus?

To acquire the full amount, you need to maximize your working life and begin collecting your check until age 70. Another way to maximize your check is by asking for a raise every two or three years. Moving companies throughout your career is another way to prove your worth, and generate more money.

What happens if you don't enroll in Medicare Part A at 65?

Part A late enrollment penalty

If you have to buy Part A, and you don't buy it when you're first eligible for Medicare, your monthly premium may go up 10%. You'll have to pay the penalty for twice the number of years you didn't sign up.

Will my Medicare premium automatically be deducted from Social Security?

Yes. In fact, if you are signed up for both Social Security and Medicare Part B — the portion of Medicare that provides standard health insurance — the Social Security Administration will automatically deduct the premium from your monthly benefit. The standard Part B premium in 2023 is $164.90 a month.

Is Medicare automatic if on Social Security?

If you're already getting Social Security benefits, you'll be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B (you don't need to apply). However, because you must pay a premium for Part B coverage, you have the option of turning it down. You'll get your Medicare card about three months before you turn 65.

Do I automatically get Medicare when I turn 65?

You automatically get Medicare when you turn 65

Part A covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care. Part B covers certain doctors' services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services.

Do I need to notify Social Security when I turn 65?

Do I need to notify Social Security when I turn 65? You don't need to notify Social Security that you're turning 65. Instead, you apply for Social Security when you want your benefits to start, which could be as early as age 62 or as late as age 70.

How do you qualify for $144 back from Medicare?

To qualify for the giveback, you must:
  1. Be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B.
  2. Pay your own premiums (if a state or local program is covering your premiums, you're not eligible).
  3. Live in a service area of a plan that offers a Part B giveback.

What is the Social Security 5 year rule?

The Five-Year Rule is important to consider when saving for retirement. If you anticipate needing Social Security in the future, you must have five years of covered earnings to maximize the amount of money you receive.

What questions to ask Social Security about Medicare?

What is the monthly premium for Medicare Part B? How do I sign up for Medicare Part B if I already have Part A? What are Medicare late enrollment penalties? Do I need to sign up for Medicare Part B if I am working and have health insurance through an employer?

What is the best resource to understand Medicare?

AARP Medicare Resource Center

Among the other resources you'll find: Step-by-step tutorials on how to use Medicare's Plan Finder, to learn about Medicare Advantage, Medigap and Part D prescription drug plans in your area.

What questions do I need to ask about Medicare?

Use this guide to consider your options when preparing to enroll in Medicare or after you have already enrolled.
  • What are the basics? ...
  • What are your coverage options? ...
  • Should you enroll in Part D? ...
  • Are you eligible for programs that help lower Medicare costs? ...
  • What resources exist to help you navigate Medicare?

How much do I have to pay for Medicare when I turn 65?

If you don't buy Part A when you're first eligible for Medicare (usually when you turn 65), you might pay a penalty. Most people pay the standard Part B monthly premium amount ($164.90 in 2023). Social Security will tell you the exact amount you'll pay for Part B in 2023.

Is Medicare based on my income?

Medicare premiums are based on your modified adjusted gross income, or MAGI. That's your total adjusted gross income plus tax-exempt interest, as gleaned from the most recent tax data Social Security has from the IRS.

How long does it take for Medicare to be approved?

You can apply for Medicare online or by phone. You can check the status of your Medicare application on your online account, by phone or by visiting your local Social Security Administration office. It usually takes four to eight weeks for your Medicare application to be approved.

How much comes out of my Social Security check for Medicare?

Medicare Deduction From Social Security 2023

Similarly, for Medicare, the tax rate is 1.45% for both parties, making it a total of 2.9%.

At what age is Social Security no longer taxed?

Social Security can potentially be subject to tax regardless of your age. While you may have heard at some point that Social Security is no longer taxable after 70 or some other age, this isn't the case. In reality, Social Security is taxed at any age if your income exceeds a certain level.

How much will Social Security take out for Medicare in 2023?

For most people, $164.90 will be deducted each month from your Social Security to pay for Medicare Part B (medical insurance). This amount will be higher for those who have higher incomes.

Why are you forced to take Medicare?

Some employers don't continue to offer retiree health coverage for former employees once they turn 65, opting instead for retirees to transition to being covered solely by Medicare. Without coverage from your company, you'll need Medicare to ensure that you are covered for potential health issues that arise as you age.

Does everyone have to pay for Medicare at 65?

If you have worked at least 40 quarters in the United States, this is you. So, it doesn't cost you anything to add Part A at age 65. If you have an inpatient hospital stay, that Part A coverage may help to reduce your spending under your group health plan. Learn more about Medicare and Employer Coverage here.

How do I know if I am automatically enrolled in Medicare?

If you're automatically enrolled, you'll get your Medicare card in the mail 3 months before your 65th birthday or your 25th month of disability.