Vermont Blue 65: Reference Center

Medicare benefits are NOT automatic – you must apply!

There are two parts to Medicare:


•	Medicare Part A (Hospital) and,
•	Medicare Part B (Physician and Medical).

Part B is optional. However, if you plan to buy a supplemental plan – such as a Vermont Blue 65 Medicare supplement insurance plan – you must be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B. Please remember this when you apply for Medicare benefits.

HOW to apply for benefits:

1. Call or visit your local Social Security Administration office or Railroad Retirement Board, if applicable. You'll find the phone number in your telephone directory. Apply for Social Security benefits. Your Social Security benefits include benefits for Medicare Part A.*

2. You'll need the following documents: an original or certified copy of your birth or baptismal certificate; W-2 Forms for the past two years; and your Social Security Card or number.

WHEN to apply for benefits:

To guarantee access to Medicare benefits when you turn age 65, you must apply within your Medicare Enrollment Period.

Your Medicare Enrollment Period includes the three months before the month you turn 65, the month you turn 65 and the three months after you turn 65. If you apply in the three-month period before your birthday, your protection will begin the first day of your birth month.

If you do not apply for Medicare during this seven-month period, you'll have to wait to apply during the general enrollment period – from January 1 through March 31 of each year. Waiting puts you at financial risk because coverage won't begin until July 1. While you're waiting for Medicare to start, you'll have to pay any costs normally paid by Medicare

*PLEASE NOTE: Individuals born in 1939 and later must wait longer to receive full Social Security benefits – four additional months for 1939 births. However, people can join Medicare when they are age 65 and are instantly eligible for full benefits. Your local Social Security Administration will help you through this process.