Many times, people assume that Medicare and Social Security benefits go hand in hand, but the truth is that you can apply for Medicare without receiving Social Security. If you are approaching age 65 and not yet collecting Social Security retirement benefits, you must sign up for Medicare on your own. Here's what you need to know.
Who Needs to Apply for Medicare Manually?
You will not be automatically enrolled in Medicare if you are not receiving Social Security or Railroad retirement benefits when you turn 65. This applies if:
✅ You are still working and delaying Social Security benefits.
✅ You have other health coverage, like employer-sponsored insurance, but want to enroll in Medicare.
✅ You plan to retire later and have not yet filed for Social Security.
How to Apply for Medicare Without Social Security
You can apply for Medicare in three ways:
Online, you can visit ssa.gov/medicare and apply through the Social Security Administration's website.
By Phone: Call Social Security at 800-722-1213 and request an application.
In-Person: Visit your local Social Security office to apply.
When to Apply?
You should apply during your Initial Enrollment Period, which begins three months before your 65th birthday, includes your birthday, and ends three months after your 65th birthday.
Do You Need to Sign Up for Both Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B?
Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance): If you have worked for at least 10 years, you usually get Part A premium-free, so most people sign up even if they are still working.
Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance): If you have employer-sponsored coverage, you may be able to delay Medicare Part B without penalties. If you do not have other coverage, you should sign up to avoid any late penalties.
What Happens if You Delay Medicare?
You could face lifetime late enrollment penalties if you don’t have employer health coverage and delay signing up for Part B or Part D. Be sure to understand your options before delaying coverage.
Final Thoughts:
You do not need to collect Social Security to sign up for Medicare. If you’re turning 65 and not receiving Social Security, be proactive and apply through the Social Security Administration to ensure you get the coverage you need.
At The Bedrock Group, we have an entire Medicare division, Senior Solutions, dedicated to providing you with everything you need to know to retire happy and healthy.
Need help navigating Medicare enrollment? Contact us today!
🌐 www.bedrockfg.com/scheduleappointment 📞 833-905-1060
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At The Bedrock Group, we are a Veteran and First-Responder-owned, full-service insurance agency dedicated to helping you navigate your insurance and financial needs. We proudly offer complimentary consultations and no-cost Medicare Reviews.
We are headquartered in New Albany, Indiana, and have a full-service agency in Asheville, North Carolina.
We have advisors in 48 states ready to help with a wide range of services, including:
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And more!
Have Medicare questions? Call our team at 502-200-1516 for help over the phone.
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At The Bedrock Group and Senior Solutions, we're here to help!
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