Updated 02/15/2013 09:28 AM |
ID# 165
I did not apply for Medicare when I turned 65. Can I apply later?
Yes, but only during specific enrollment periods. You can file online for Medicare during the general enrollment period (GEP) from January 1 through March 31 of each year. Medicare enrollments filed during the GEP will begin July 1. Generally, a 10 percent premium penalty will be added to the Part B monthly premium for each year you could have enrolled but did not. However, if you are covered by an employer or union group health plan through you or your spouse's current or active employment, you may qualify for a special enrollment period.
If you meet the requirements for a special enrollment period, you do not have to wait for a GEP or pay a premium penalty. You have an eight- month special enrollment period if you have group health plan coverage from current employer at the time you first became eligible for Medicare. This special enrollment period begins with the month after employment ends or the month after your group health plan coverage ends, whichever comes first. For more information on Medicare enrollment periods, see our publication, Medicare (Publication No. 05-10043).
If you meet the requirements for a special enrollment period, you do not have to wait for a GEP or pay a premium penalty. You have an eight- month special enrollment period if you have group health plan coverage from current employer at the time you first became eligible for Medicare. This special enrollment period begins with the month after employment ends or the month after your group health plan coverage ends, whichever comes first. For more information on Medicare enrollment periods, see our publication, Medicare (Publication No. 05-10043).
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