Applying for Medicare Part B

Here's what you need to know!

Signing up for Medicare Part B involves your private data. Social Security keeps that information secure and wants your data to remain that way. This is one the part of the Medicare Maze that I can’t assist with other than directing you the various ways to sign up.

You have a couple options to select when signing up for Part B. 

In order by preference.

  1. Online enrollment using this link. (By clicking the link, you’ll be taken to the Social Security Administration website to apply).
  2. Completing the attached form (attached to this email) then faxing it to Social Security
  3. Calling 1-800-772-1213. Applying over the phone. (You’ll likely be given an appointment to sign up.).

Enrolling ONLINE is really easy. AND there’s a window for enrolling… beginning 90 days BEFORE your 65th birth month, your birth month, and ending 90 days after your birth month.

For example:  If you have a January birthday, you can sign up for Part B of Medicare on October 1st.

In my opinion, it’s best to enroll early. Why? Social Security is handling 10,000 -13,000 people turning 65 each day. This can take up to 30 days for your card to arrive. Plus, you and I need time to discuss and help you decide which kind of plan you need. All you have to do is sign up for Part B. The rest we figure out together.

Since the easiest way to enroll in Part B is online, simply answer the questions in order. Always click “next” at the bottom of each page. When you’re done there’s a virtual signature.

  • Some Things to Note:
  • Sign up for Medicare Part B ONLY if you do not want your social security benefit to start when your Medicare starts.
  • If you’re getting benefits from your spouse (former or deceased), then the social security number for Medicare is their number, not yours.
  • If this is the case, then in the remarks section:  Write former spouse’s name with their social security number, then your name and social below it for clarity, and list if you’re married, divorced.
  • Save your online “re-entry” number for changes if you need to exit and return later to finish. Write the month you want to start Part B. Complete by checking the signature box and typing in your name.
  • Paper Form Items to Note:

Do not worry about a BIC code (3 boxes after the SS#).

  • Do not complete the part under “Witness” (That’s for someone who has a POA).
  • Remarks section: Request your Medicare Part B (Only) to begin 01 of ____ (month).
  • Scan and Fax directly to SS office; 1-833-914-2016 (Fax locally if possible. Different Fax number for each local SS office.)

  • For St Johns County, the office is located at 2428 Old Moultrie Rd, St Augustine, FL 32086. Phone 877-405-5867. Make sure to look at their hours as they vary.

  • For Duval County, the office is located at 7185 Bonneval Road, Jacksonville, FL 32256. Phone 877-409-8424. Make sure to look at their hours as they vary.
  • Important:

Wait time is typically 2-3 weeks to arrive, but it can take up to 30 days.

When it comes in the mail, snap a photo and send the picture via text to AskCarolB at (904) 648-6488. This will help when we review the Advantage and Supplement plans. I need the exact number and the name Medicare has you under.

That’s it! Let me know if you need me to clarify.

-+=

stay informed!