Who is Medicare For?
Medicare is a health insurance program designed for individuals 65 and older. Whether you reside in Charlotte, Durham, Cary, or anywhere in North Carolina or the U.S.A., you can sign up for Medicare three months before your 65th birthday. Additionally, you may qualify for Medicare before 65 if you have a disability, end-stage renal disease (ESRD), or ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease).
When Does Your Medicare Coverage Start?
Understanding when your Medicare coverage begins is crucial. If you sign up for Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and/or Medicare Part B (medical insurance) within the first three months of your Initial Enrollment Period, your coverage starts on the first day of your birthday month. If your birthday falls on the first day of the month, coverage begins on the first day of the previous month.
Examples:
-Mr. Thompson's 65th birthday is August 20, 2022. If he signs up in April, May, or June, coverage starts on August 1, 2022. - Mrs. Scott: 65th birthday on August 1, 2022. If she signs up in March, April, or May, coverage starts on July 1, 2022.
What if you miss the Initial Enrollment Period?
If you don't sign up during the first three months before turning 65, your coverage start date will be delayed based on your sign-up date.
If you sign up for Part A and/or Part B in this month: | Your coverage starts: |
The month you turn 65 | One month after you sign up |
One month after you turn 65 | Two months after you sign up |
Two months after you turn 65 | Three months after you sign up |
Three months after you turn 65 | Three months after you sign up |
During the January 1- March 31 General Enrollment Period | July 1 |
Note: Late enrollment penalties may apply if you miss your Initial Enrollment Period and don’t qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.
How to Enroll in Medicare
If you have questions about signing up for Medicare or what happens if you miss enrollment at 65, our Medicare agents in North Carolina are here to help. We can assist you in comparing plans and options to ensure you get the best coverage without hassle.
Contact Us: Get expert advice from our locally-based North Carolina Medicare agents today. Call 1-800-797-0327 or request a quote to get started.