How to Obtain a Medicare Number
Medicare is a benefits package that was created by the United States government and Social Security to help United States citizens who are 65 and older with medical bills. You can apply for Medicare once you are 64 years and eight months old. Obtaining a Medicare number allows you to receive benefits. Doctors' offices and hospitals require the number to file claims for your medical expenses covered by Medicare.Things You'll Need
- Social Security card
- Picture Identification Card; Military Identification, Driver's License, or a Non-driver Identification Card
- Birth Certificate
Instructions
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Obtain a Medicare Number Online
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1
Go online to the Social Security website. Click the "Apply Online for Medicare Now" red button on the Medicare Application page. (See Resource 1)
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2
Click on the "I am applying for myself" button. Then click "I am not blind or visually impaired" and then click "Apply for Benefits."
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3
Type in your personal information. Fill out the Medicare application to the best of your ability and contact Social Security if you have any questions regarding the application. (See Resource 1)
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4
Save the Medicare application. Press the "Save" button and return to the application at a later date if you do not have the answer to a question.
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5
Receive the notification from Social Security and Medicare. A description of your benefits and your Medicare number will arrive in the mail.
Obtain a Medicare Number in Person
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6
Schedule an appointment. Contact the nearest Social Security office and set up an appointment to apply for Medicare.
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7
Go to your appointment. Bring your picture identification, birth certificate and your Social Security card.
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8
Work with the Social Security representative to fill out the Medicare application. Complete your personal information and the representative will assist you with filling out the form.
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9
Receive the Medicare notification in the mail. The notification will contain your Medicare number and information about your benefits.
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