Medicare Enrollment & COVID-19
Information about enrolling in Medicare is particularly important during the COVID crisis. The following information is taken from the Social Security COVID-19 webpage, updated April 6, 2020, under the Subheading “Can I Enroll in Medicare?”
Enrolling online is the easiest way to apply for Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) or for Extra Help with Medicare prescription drug program costs, if you qualify.
If you are applying for Medicare Part A for the first time, our online application provides you the option to enroll in Medicare Part B (Supplemental Medical Insurance) or opt out of Part B coverage.
If you are already enrolled in Medicare Part A and you are interested in enrolling in Part B, you cannot use our online application. Please mail your completed application, CMS-40B, Application for Enrollment in Medicare – Part B (Medical Insurance) to your local Social Security field office. If you are applying for Medicare Part B due to a loss of employment or group health coverage, you will also need to complete form CMS-L564 (Request for Employment Information).
We are working with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to offer relief from certain requirements and timeframes for Medicare Part B.
To ensure we can timely process your request, please complete the CMS-L564 as follows:
- Complete Section A and Section B of the form; and
- Normally your employer would complete Section B, however CMS has waived this requirement during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Submit proof of employment, Group Health Plan (GHP), or Large Group Health Plan (LGHP).
- Complete Section A and Section B of the form; and
Although our offices are closed to the public for in-person service, we are still processing requests received by mail. You can find the address to your local office using our Social Security Office Locator. You can also call your local office with questions. You can find the phone number for your local office under “Additional Office Information.”
How long does it take from the time SSA receives my forms until the time I have coverage?
It can take up to 21 days to process your application. If you are applying for Medicare Part B due to a recent loss in employment or group health coverage, your medical coverage is effective the month following the date we receive your request to enroll.
For further information on Medicare Enrollment and more, including telehealth and other programs, watch The Center for Medicare Advocacy’s recorded webinar, Medicare & Health Care Updates In Light of COVID-19 at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/recording/5460751293739913997.