Social security/medicare benefits
My sister and her husband made an appointment at their local SSA office to sign up for benefits. He is retiring may 1st. She made the appointment 6 weeks ago. When the got to the SSA office March 2nd they were told the person that made their appointment messed up and didn’t make it right. They were told the next appointment is not until April 27th. They said “sorry we’re really busy” and there was nothing they could do for them! To make sure they have healthcare, would you sign up for part B now and tell them they want it starting May 1st and worry about SS on the 27th?
Terry Says
Wait – wait — wait. There is a distinction between collecting Social Security benefits and applying for Medicare! And you really nee dot understand that.
No matter when he/she retires, I hope they will consider waiting until their full retirement age — almost 67 — to apply for SS benefits. Otherwise the check will be permanently reduced. Use some savings if it’s just a matter of a year or two, because you want the highest possible base check for your Social Security.
As for Medicare, he/she should sign up online for Medicare coverage to make sure it starts the month they lose coverage from work. So do it NOW at https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up.
But just signing up for Medicare is only the first step. He will also need a supplement and a Plan D. Read this special report to learn more:
https://www.terrysavage.com/medicare-beware-a-special-report/
I know you asked for “a friend” — but do the friend a favor and make sure they are not just waiting for an appointment at Social Security to get their Medicare insurance started.
If they want help in the Chicago area, go to Thom Dillon at https://www.jtmedicaresolutions.com/
