Enroll for Medicare Part C: Step By Step Guide
Medicare Part C is provides a combination of both Medicare Part A and Part B through what’s known as Medicare Advantage Plans. These plans are provided by Medicare-approved private insurance companies. The plans typically include prescription drug coverage eliminating the need to purchase Medicare Part D coverage.
Medicare Advantage Plans often include benefits beyond that of Part A and Part B, but the plans have a monthly premium in addition to the premium required for Part B.
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When Can You Enroll in Medicare Part C?
You can enroll in an Medicare Advantage Plan at specific times.
During your initial enrollment period when you first become eligible for Medicare. The initial enrollment period begins the 3 months before you turn 65 and ends the 3 months after you turn 65.
If you are under 65 and receive Medicare because of a disability, you become eligible for Medicare Part C at your 25th month of coverage. You can join a Medicare Advantage plan between your 22nd and 28th month of disability.
You’re able to join a plan between November 15 and December 31 each year. Coverage begins on January 1 of the next year when you enroll between those dates.
You can join a plan during general enrollment each year which lasts from January 1 to March 31 each year. However, during general enrollment you cannot join a plan that has prescription drug coverage unless you already have Part D prescription drug coverage.
How to Find Medicare Advantage Plans
You can search for available Medicare Advantage Plans through the Medicare website. Once you are on the site, click the button that reads “Find & Compare Health Plans” to search for plans that are available in your area. Once you have found a plan you wish to enroll in, you should contact the plan to complete an application. You may be able to enroll via paper application through the mail, over the phone, or even online.
Each plan has different application methods, so talk to a customer service representative to find out the specific instructions for your desired plan. When you’re ready to join, you’ll need to have your Medicare number and the date your Part A or Part B coverage started (or both if you are enrolled in both). The enrollment dates are listed on the front of your card. If you have lost your Medicaid Card, you can order a new one from Social Security by calling 1-800-772-1213. Or, if you receive Railroad Retirement Board benefits, call 1-800-325-0778.
Out-of-Pocket Costs for Medicare Advantage Plans
The following are possible costs you face when you enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan.
A monthly premium charged by the plan in addition to the Part B premium. Your premiums for all Medicare coverage is combined into a single payment.
A yearly deductible that you must meet before the plan begins to cover services.
A copayment due for each visit or service.
There may be extra costs when you visit a doctor or hospital outside the hospital’s network or when you see a specialist without having a referral from your primary care physician.
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Assistance Paying Part C Costs
If you have low income and need help paying your premium, coinsurance, or deductibles, you may be able to receive help from your State Medical Assistance office. You should meet the following conditions to receive Medicare assistance.
You must have Part A.
If you are a single person, you must have monthly income less than $1,190 and resources less than $4,000.
If you are married, you must be living with your spouse and have monthly income less than $1,595 and resources less than $6,000.
Resources include money in a checking or savings account, not your car, burial plot, furniture or other items in your home. You can call Medicare at 1-800-633-4227 to get more information about receiving help with your Medicare costs.