If you are already on Medicare Part A but did not sign up for Medicare Part B during the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP), you have options. You may enroll during the General Enrollment Period (GEP) or become qualified for the Special Enrollment Period (SEP). Below is a guide explaining how to sign up for Part B with all the important information you should know.
General enrollment period (GEP)
If you missed signing up for Medicare Part B during your Initial Enrollment Period, you may join Medicare during the General Enrollment Period from January 1 to March 31 every year. Coverage begins the month following your enrollment. You might, however, incur penalties for late enrollment if you have not signed up when first eligible.
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Special enrollment period (SEP)
An individual is eligible for a Special Enrollment Period if they have health care coverage through active employment as an employee or as the spouse of an employee. The Special Enrollment Period grants the individual enrollment into Medicare Part B without being subject to the late enrollment penalty. If you qualify for an SEP, you may apply online on the Social Security site.
Medicare part B application
Generally, Medicare Part B application may be made in one of three ways, such as:
1. Online application: Qualified applicants for SEP may apply for Medicare Part B enrollment online via the Social Security Administration website.
2. Fax/Mail application forms: Applicants should submit to their local Social Security office completed forms of Application for Enrollment in Medicare – Part B (CMS-40B) and Request for Employment Information (CMS-L564).
3. Telephone assistance: The Social Security office may be contacted at 1-800-772-1213 for questions or assistance in filling out the application (TTY users can call 1-800-325-0778).
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Completing the required forms
Some points to remember while filling out the CMS-40B and CMS-L564 forms are:
Mention clearly in the Remarks section of the CMS-40B form or online application: “I want Part B coverage to begin (MM/YY).”
If unable, have your employer complete Section B of the CMS-L564 form. If your employer cannot fill out the form, try to complete as much information as you can without your employer’s signature.
Submitting proof of employment and coverage
If there is no way you can obtain the signature of your employer on the CMS-L564 form, then you should send one of the following as secondary evidence:
- Income tax returns for which health insurance premiums were paid
- W-2s showing pre-tax medical contributions
- Pay stubs showing a deduction for health insurance premiums
- Health insurance cards showing the policy effective date
- Explanations of benefits from a Group Health Plan or Large Group Health Plan
- Statements or receipts showing payments for health insurance premium
Things to consider
To understand more about Medicare enrollment and benefits, check the Medicare Benefits section of the Social Security Administration’s website. In case you want personal, face-to-face help, making an appointment at your local Social Security office could ease the way.
With a clear understanding of the options available and the necessary documentation prepared, you will be able to enroll in Medicare Part B and maintain healthcare coverage.
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