I’m turning 65 and the Social Security office is closed…now what?

I get calls like this all the time. A person is turning 65, however, the Social Security Administration (SSA) office is closed in my area, what do I do? Fortunately, you have options to apply for Medicare and it’s easy to do:

1. Visit www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare to apply for Medicare and find other important information. You can apply for parts A and/or B. It should less than 15 minutes.
2. You can call your local Social Security office and request an application. Typically each office has its own toll free number and the wait time is far less than calling the national SSA toll free number. Social Security Office Locator, SSA Office Locator Social Security Office Locator, Social Security is a good tool to use. Just type in your zip code and it will locate the office closest to you.
3. Find an insurance agency/agent licensed in your area who is licensed to sell Medicare. Medicare broker insurance agents may be able to sit down with you and explain the “what and how” Medicare works. He or she will explain, assist you in applying for Medicare, and they may be able to assist you in finding the right PDP (prescription drug plan), MAPD ( Medicare Advantage Plan) or Medicare supplement (Medigap).

Like everything it’s a process, however, applying for Medicare when turning 65 is necessary to avoid any late enrollment penalties.