How to Sign Up for Medicare in Colorado

Medicare is a federal health insurance program that pays hospital, doctor and prescription expenses. Residents of Colorado can participate in Medicare if they meet certain requirements. Most people qualify for Medicare when they turn 65. However, some people who are permanently disabled and people who are experiencing kidney failure can also qualify for Medicare. Although Medicare is a federal program, the entity that administers it, called the Social Security Administration, has offices in multiple locations across Colorado.

Instructions

• 1

  Collect the documents you will need to apply for Medicare. Include your medical history in the form of doctor's statements and copies of medical records. Gather proof your your income such as statements from a pension or social service payments, pay stubs, bank statements for the past three months, and your most recent tax returns. Get your Social Security card,your birth certificate and your rental lease or house deed to prove your identity, citizenship and Colorado residency.

• 2

  Find the Social Security Administration satellite office nearest to you by going to the SSA website. Click "Find a Social Security Office," enter your ZIP code and write down the contact information and address of the location that appears on the screen.

• 3

  Call the office to set up an appointment. Although you can receive walk-in help, you will likely have a long wait to speak with an SSA case worker, especially in a large city like Denver, if you do not have an appointment.

• 4

  Take your paperwork to the office at your appointed time. A case worker will take your information and submit the application for you.

• 5

  Wait for approximately one month to receive your Medicare card in the mail. If the SSA does not approve your application, you may appeal within 60 days of the denial date.