How to Apply for Medicare in Maryland?

Did you know that nearly 20% of Maryland residents are eligible for Medicare? If you’re approaching 65 or qualify due to disability you’ll need to navigate the enrollment process to secure your healthcare coverage.

Applying for Medicare in Maryland doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re a first-time applicant or helping a loved one the process follows clear steps that you can complete online from home or at your local Social Security office. Understanding when and how to apply ensures you won’t miss critical enrollment windows that could delay your coverage or result in penalties.

Maryland offers several resources to help you through the Medicare application process. From the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) to local enrollment centers you’ll find support every step of the way. Let’s explore how you can successfully apply for Medicare and start accessing the healthcare benefits you’ve earned.

Understanding Medicare Eligibility in Maryland

Let me tell you something – figuring out if you qualify for Medicare in Maryland isn’t as complicated as you might think. After helping thousands of Marylanders navigate this process, I’ve learned that breaking down the eligibility requirements into bite-sized pieces makes everything crystal clear.

Age Requirements

You know what’s great about turning 65? You automatically qualify for Medicare – it’s like a birthday gift from Uncle Sam! 🎂

Here’s the deal: once you hit that magical age of 65, you’re in. Doesn’t matter if you’re still working, retired, or somewhere in between. The Medicare system recognizes your 65th birthday as your golden ticket to coverage.

But wait, there’s more to this story.

Your Initial Enrollment Period actually starts 3 months before you turn 65. That’s right – you don’t have to wait until your actual birthday to get the ball rolling. In fact, I always tell my clients to start the process early because who wants to deal with paperwork on their birthday?

Now here’s where people sometimes get tripped up: if you’re already receiving Social Security benefits, you’ll be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B. Pretty sweet, right? But if you’re not getting Social Security yet, you’ve got to take action yourself.

Disability Qualifications

This is where things get a bit more complex, but stick with me here.

You can qualify for Medicare before age 65 if you have certain disabilities. After working with countless clients in this situation, I’ve seen firsthand how this early access to Medicare can be a real lifesaver.

Here’s what you need to know:

First, you must be receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. Once you’ve been getting SSDI for 24 months, boom – you’re eligible for Medicare. That’s a two-year waiting period, folks. I know it seems long, but those are the rules.

There are two exceptions to this 24-month rule that blow people’s minds when I tell them:

1. ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) – If you’re diagnosed with ALS, you get Medicare immediately when your disability benefits start. No waiting period at all.
2. End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) – Got kidney failure requiring dialysis or a transplant? You can get Medicare as early as the first month of dialysis, depending on your specific situation.

I had a client last year with ESRD who didn’t know about this immediate eligibility. When I told him, he nearly fell out of his chair! Don’t let that be you – know your rights.

Citizenship and Residency Status

Alright, let’s talk about who can actually get Medicare based on where they’re from and where they live.

You must be either a U.S. citizen or a legal permanent resident (green card holder) to qualify for Medicare. But here’s the kicker – if you’re a permanent resident, you need to have lived in the United States continuously for at least 5 years before you can apply.

Think of it this way: Medicare wants to make sure you’re committed to staying in the U.S. before they commit to covering your healthcare.

For Maryland residents specifically, you don’t need to prove you live in Maryland to get Medicare – it’s a federal program. But your Maryland residency does matter when it comes to:

• Choosing Medicare Advantage plans (these have service areas)
• Finding doctors who accept Medicare
• Getting help from Maryland SHIP counselors

Here’s something that trips people up: if you’re a U.S. citizen who’s been living abroad, you can still get Medicare when you return. I had a client who’d been teaching English in Japan for 10 years – came back at 66 and enrolled without a hitch.

One more thing that’s super important: if you don’t have enough work credits (usually 40 quarters of Medicare-covered employment), you might still get Medicare, but you’ll pay premiums for Part A. Most people get Part A premium-free, but not everyone.

The bottom line? Your eligibility for Medicare in Maryland depends on hitting one of these checkmarks: turning 65, having a qualifying disability, or meeting specific medical conditions. And yes, you’ve got to be a citizen or permanent resident who’s put down roots here.

When to Apply for Medicare in Maryland

Medicare enrollment timing can make or break your healthcare coverage – trust me, I’ve seen folks miss their window and pay the price (literally). After 25+ years helping Maryland residents navigate these waters, I’ve learned that knowing when to pull the trigger on your application is just as crucial as understanding what you’re signing up for.

Initial Enrollment Period

Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is the golden ticket to Medicare – it’s a 7-month window that includes the 3 months before your 65th birthday month, your birthday month itself, and 3 months after.

Let’s say you’re turning 65 in July. Your IEP runs from April through October. Simple enough, right?

Here’s where it gets interesting though. The exact date your coverage kicks in depends on when you actually enroll:

When You Enroll	Coverage Start Date
3 months before birthday month	First day of birthday month
During birthday month	First day of next month
Month after birthday	Second month after enrollment
2-3 months after birthday	Third month after enrollment

I can’t stress this enough – enrolling early is your best bet. Why? Because waiting until the last minute of your IEP means you’re looking at coverage gaps.

Maryland residents who’re already collecting Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits? You’re in luck. Medicare Part A and B enrollment happens automatically, and your red, white, and blue Medicare card shows up in your mailbox about 3 months before you turn 65.

But here’s the kicker – if you’re not getting those benefits yet, you’ve gotta take action yourself. The Social Security Administration won’t hunt you down.

Special Enrollment Periods

Life throws curveballs, and Medicare gets that. Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) are your safety net when circumstances change after your Initial Enrollment Period passes.

Lost your job at 67? Your employer coverage ending triggers an 8-month SEP. Moving from Baltimore to Annapolis? That residential change opens a SEP window too.

Here are the heavy hitters that qualify you for a SEP in Maryland:

• Employer coverage loss: You get 8 months from when coverage ends or employment terminates (whichever comes first)
• Moving outside your plan’s service area: New address = new enrollment opportunity
• Qualifying for Extra Help: Low-income subsidy approval opens immediate enrollment
• Medicaid changes: Gaining, losing, or changing Medicaid eligibility status
• Natural disasters: FEMA declarations in Maryland counties trigger SEPs

The beauty of SEPs? Coverage typically starts the first day of the month after you enroll. No waiting around for months like with the General Enrollment Period.

I’ve helped countless clients use SEPs to their advantage. One Baltimore teacher forgot to enroll at 65 because she had great coverage through the school system. When she retired at 68, that 8-month SEP saved her bacon – no penalties, no gaps.

General Enrollment Period

Missed your Initial Enrollment Period and don’t qualify for a Special Enrollment Period? The General Enrollment Period (GEP) is your annual mulligan – but it comes with strings attached.

Running from January 1 through March 31 each year, the GEP lets you sign up for Medicare Part B if you didn’t enroll when first eligible. Coverage doesn’t start until July 1 though, which means you’re looking at potential months without coverage.

Here’s the real stinger – late enrollment penalties. For every 12-month period you could’ve had Part B but didn’t sign up, you’ll pay an extra 10% on your premium. Forever.

Let me paint you a picture. Say you were eligible at 65 but waited until 68 to enroll during GEP. That’s 3 years without Part B = 30% higher premiums for life. On Maryland’s 2024 standard Part B premium of $174.70, you’re looking at an extra $52.41 monthly. That adds up to $628.92 annually – ouch.

The GEP also applies to Medicare Advantage and Part D drug plans, but with different rules:

Plan Type	GEP Period	Coverage Start
Part B	Jan 1 – Mar 31	July 1
Medicare Advantage	Jan 1 – Mar 31	Varies by plan
Part D	Oct 15 – Dec 7*	January 1

*Part D uses Annual Enrollment Period, not GEP

Maryland’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) offers free counseling during GEP at locations throughout the state. They’ll help you calculate potential penalties and explore whether you might qualify for penalty exemptions.

One silver lining? If you’re eligible for Medicare due to disability and missed your IEP, the GEP gives you another shot without the usual 24-month waiting period restarting.

Ways to Apply for Medicare in Maryland

Maryland residents have three convenient options for submitting their Medicare applications. Each method offers unique benefits depending on your comfort level with technology and personal preferences.

Online Application Process

The online application through SSA.gov is the fastest way to apply for Medicare in Maryland. You can complete your entire application in about 10 minutes from the comfort of your home.

Here’s the thing – the Social Security website isn’t exactly user-friendly. It feels like it was designed in 2005 and never updated. But don’t let that scare you off.

You’ll need to create a my Social Security account first. Make sure you have your driver’s license and Social Security card handy. The system asks for specific information like your place of birth and mother’s maiden name.

Once you’re logged in, click on “Apply for Medicare Only” if you’re not ready for Social Security benefits yet. The application saves your progress automatically, so if your internet crashes (because let’s face it, that always happens at the worst times), you won’t lose everything.

The best part? You get an immediate confirmation number. Screenshot it. Email it to yourself. Write it on a sticky note. This number is your golden ticket if anything goes sideways with your application.

Phone Application

Calling 1-800-772-1213 connects you directly with a Social Security representative who can process your Medicare application. Wait times average 20-30 minutes on Mondays and Fridays, but calling Tuesday through Thursday around 10 AM typically gets you through faster.

I’ve helped countless folks apply over the phone, and here’s what nobody tells you – these representatives are actually pretty helpful. They’re not trying to rush you off the phone like your cable company.

Have these documents ready before calling:

• Social Security number
• Birth certificate information
• Current employer details (if you’re still working)
• Military discharge papers (if applicable)

The representative walks you through each question. They even repeat important information to make sure you’ve got it right. The entire call usually takes 30-45 minutes.

One insider tip? Ask the representative to mail you a confirmation of your application. Sometimes the system doesn’t automatically generate one for phone applications, and you’ll want that paper trail.

In-Person Application at Social Security Offices

Maryland has 24 Social Security offices where you can apply for Medicare face-to-face. The Baltimore office on Reisterstown Road and the Silver Spring location typically have shorter wait times than downtown locations.

Walking into a Social Security office feels like stepping back in time. The chairs are uncomfortable, the lighting is harsh, and you’ll probably wait 45 minutes even with an appointment. But for some people, that in-person interaction is worth it.

Schedule your appointment online at SSA.gov or call your local office directly. Appointments fill up 2-3 weeks in advance, especially during enrollment season.

Bring original documents or certified copies:

• Birth certificate
• Proof of citizenship or legal residency
• W-2 forms or self-employment tax returns
• Military discharge papers (Form DD-214)

The actual application process with a representative takes about 30 minutes. They’ll type everything into their computer while asking you questions. Double-check the information on the screen – I’ve seen typos cause months of delays.

Here’s something most people don’t realize – you can bring someone with you. If you’re helping a parent or spouse apply, the representative can speak directly with both of you. Just bring a signed authorization form.

Required Documents for Medicare Application

Gathering the right paperwork before applying for Medicare in Maryland can save you hours of frustration and multiple trips to the Social Security office. Adam’s seen countless clients struggle with incomplete applications, so let’s make sure you’ve got everything squared away from the start.

Proof of Identity

You’re gonna need solid proof of who you are – no getting around this one. The Social Security Administration (SSA) requires an unexpired government-issued photo ID, and they’re pretty strict about it.

Your driver’s license or Maryland state ID card works perfectly. Got a passport? Even better – it’s the gold standard for identity verification.

Here’s the kicker: photocopies won’t cut it. You need the original document or a certified copy from the issuing agency. Adam’s watched too many folks show up with photocopies only to get sent home empty-handed.

If you’re applying online, you’ll upload clear photos of these documents. Make sure they’re readable – blurry photos are one of the top reasons applications get delayed.

Lost your ID? Don’t panic. The SSA accepts alternative documents like employee ID cards, health insurance cards, or military IDs. They just need to verify your identity somehow.

Citizenship Documentation

This part trips up more people than you’d think. You need to prove you’re either a U.S. citizen or a legal permanent resident who’s lived here for at least five continuous years.

For citizens, your birth certificate does the trick. Born in the U.S.? Perfect. Born abroad to American parents? You’ll need a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certificate of Citizenship.

Naturalized citizens need their naturalization certificate – that fancy document you got when you became a citizen. Can’t find it? You can request a replacement from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for $555.

Legal permanent residents should bring their green card (Form I-551). The SSA checks that you’ve maintained continuous residency for those five years, so keep any travel records handy.

Here’s something Adam’s noticed: military discharge papers (DD-214) can sometimes serve as citizenship proof if they show you were born in the U.S. It’s not widely known, but it’s saved several veterans from hunting down birth certificates.

Employment and Income Records

The SSA needs to verify your work history to determine your Medicare eligibility and calculate any premiums you might owe. This gets a bit complicated, but stick with me.

Your most recent W-2 forms or self-employment tax returns paint the clearest picture. Bring copies from the last two years – they show both your earnings and Medicare taxes paid.

Still working? Your latest pay stubs help too. They show current income, which matters for determining if you qualify for Extra Help programs or state assistance.

Self-employed folks, you’re not off the hook. Schedule SE from your tax returns proves you’ve been paying into the Medicare system. Can’t find them? The IRS provides tax transcripts for free online.

Here’s where it gets interesting: if you’re applying based on your spouse’s work record, bring their Social Security number and proof of marriage. Marriage certificates, even old ones, still count.

Railroad workers need special documentation – your Railroad Retirement Board records replace standard Social Security documents. Contact the RRB directly at 1-877-772-5772 for your earnings statement.

Federal employees hired before 1984 might not have paid Medicare taxes. You’ll need your Civil Service employment records to prove your federal service qualifies you for Medicare.

Lost track of old employers? The SSA maintains earnings records going back decades. Request a Social Security Statement online at ssa.gov/myaccount – it’s free and shows your complete work history.

Remember, missing documents don’t mean game over. The SSA often accepts alternative proofs, but it might slow things down. Adam always tells clients: when in doubt, bring more documentation rather than less. Better to have it and not need it than the other way around.

Medicare Plans Available in Maryland

Living in Maryland gives you plenty of Medicare options to choose from, and trust me, after 25+ years in this business, I’ve seen how the right plan can make all the difference. You’ve got three main categories to consider, each with its own perks and quirks.

Original Medicare (Parts A and B)

Original Medicare is the government’s basic package – think of it as the foundation of your healthcare coverage. Part A covers your hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health services. Most folks get Part A premium-free if they’ve worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years.

Part B is your medical insurance that covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and medical equipment. In 2024, the standard Part B premium runs $174.70 per month, though you might pay more if your income exceeds $103,000 (filing single) or $206,000 (filing jointly).

Here’s the kicker – Original Medicare covers about 80% of your medical costs after you meet your deductibles. That 20% coinsurance? Yeah, that’s on you, and there’s no out-of-pocket maximum. I’ve seen medical bills pile up fast with that 20%, which is why many Maryland residents add supplemental coverage.

You can use Original Medicare with any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare nationwide. No referrals needed, no network restrictions. Pretty sweet deal if you travel a lot or split time between Maryland and another state.

Medicare Advantage Plans

Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. In Maryland, you’ve got tons of options – HMOs, PPOs, and even some Special Needs Plans. These plans must cover everything Original Medicare does, but most throw in extra benefits.

Popular Medicare Advantage carriers in Maryland include:

• UnitedHealthcare
• Humana
• Kaiser Permanente
• CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
• Aetna

Many plans in Maryland offer $0 monthly premiums (you still pay Part B), and they often include prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, hearing, and even gym memberships. Some plans in Baltimore and Montgomery counties even offer transportation benefits and over-the-counter allowances.

The trade-off? You’re usually restricted to a network of doctors and hospitals. HMOs require you to pick a primary care doctor and get referrals for specialists. PPOs give you more flexibility but cost more when you go out-of-network.

Out-of-pocket maximums provide financial protection – typically ranging from $3,500 to $8,850 in 2024. Once you hit that limit, the plan pays 100% for covered services the rest of the year.

Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (Part D)

If you stick with Original Medicare, you’ll need a standalone Part D plan for prescription coverage. Maryland residents can choose from about 20 different Part D plans, with monthly premiums ranging from $6 to over $100 in 2024.

Each plan has its own formulary (drug list) organized into tiers:

• Tier 1: Preferred generics (lowest copays)
• Tier 2: Generic drugs
• Tier 3: Preferred brand drugs
• Tier 4: Non-preferred drugs
• Tier 5: Specialty drugs (highest cost)

The coverage gap (donut hole) still exists but it’s way better than it used to be. In 2024, you enter the gap after you and your plan spend $5,030 on covered drugs. You’ll pay 25% of the cost for both brand and generic drugs until your out-of-pocket costs reach $8,000 – then catastrophic coverage kicks in.

Pro tip from my experience: Always check if your medications are covered before picking a plan. I’ve helped countless Maryland residents save hundreds or even thousands annually just by matching their drugs to the right formulary. Use Medicare’s Plan Finder tool or give me a call – seriously, this stuff gets complicated fast.

Maryland’s SHIP program offers free, unbiased counseling to help you compare plans. They’ve got offices in every county, and their counselors know the local plan options inside and out.

Maryland State Programs and Assistance

Maryland offers several state-specific programs that can significantly reduce your Medicare costs and provide additional support. These programs work alongside your Medicare benefits to help you save money on premiums, deductibles, and prescription medications.

Maryland State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)

Ever feel like Medicare is speaking a foreign language? You’re not alone, and that’s exactly why Maryland’s SHIP exists.

SHIP provides free, unbiased Medicare counseling to help you navigate the complex world of healthcare coverage. The program operates through 21 local Area Agencies on Aging across Maryland, with trained counselors ready to assist you at no cost.

These counselors can help you:

• Compare Medicare plans and find the best fit for your needs
• Understand your Medicare rights and protections
• File appeals if your claim gets denied
• Apply for financial assistance programs
• Review your annual Medicare plan changes

The beauty of SHIP? They don’t sell insurance. They’re completely neutral, which means you’re getting honest advice without any sales pressure.

You can reach Maryland SHIP at 1-800-243-3425 or visit their website to find your local office. Many locations offer both in-person and virtual appointments, making it convenient regardless of your situation.

Medicare Savings Programs

Let’s talk money. If you’re struggling with Medicare costs, Maryland’s got your back with four different Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs).

These programs help pay your Medicare premiums and, in some cases, deductibles and coinsurance. The income limits for 2024 are pretty generous too:

Program	Monthly Income Limit (Individual)	Monthly Income Limit (Couple)	What It Covers
QMB	$1,255	$1,704	Part A & B premiums, deductibles, coinsurance
SLMB	$1,509	$2,049	Part B premium only
QI	$1,698	$2,306	Part B premium only
QDWI	$4,555	$6,189	Part A premium only

The Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) program is the most comprehensive. It covers your Part B premium ($174.70 in 2024), plus all Medicare deductibles and coinsurance. That’s potentially thousands of dollars in savings each year.

Here’s the kicker – many eligible Marylanders don’t even know these programs exist. In fact, only about 35% of eligible individuals are enrolled in MSPs nationwide.

Applying is straightforward. You can:

• Apply online through Maryland’s myDHR portal
• Call your local Department of Social Services
• Visit a local office in person
• Work with a SHIP counselor who can help with the application

The asset limits are $9,430 for individuals and $14,130 for couples in 2024. Your home, car, and personal belongings don’t count toward these limits.

Extra Help for Prescription Costs

Prescription drugs eating up your budget? You might qualify for Extra Help, a federal program that dramatically reduces Part D costs.

Extra Help can save you approximately $5,490 per year on prescription medications. That’s not pocket change – it’s real money back in your wallet.

With Extra Help in 2024, you’ll pay:

• $0 for your Part D premium (up to the benchmark amount)
• $0 deductible
• $4.50 for generic drugs
• $11.20 for brand-name drugs
• $0 during the coverage gap (donut hole)
• $0 after reaching the catastrophic threshold

The income limits are slightly higher than Medicare Savings Programs. For 2024, you can qualify with:

• Individual: $22,590 annual income
• Couple: $30,660 annual income

Asset limits sit at $17,220 for individuals and $34,360 for couples. Like MSPs, your primary home and car don’t count.

Here’s something most people don’t realize – if you qualify for a Medicare Savings Program, you automatically get Extra Help. No separate application needed.

You can apply for Extra Help three ways:

• Online at SSA.gov (takes about 30 minutes)
• Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213
• Visit your local Social Security office

Maryland also offers additional prescription assistance through the Senior Prescription Drug Assistance Program (SPDAP). This state program provides up to $40 per month toward Part D premiums for eligible residents.

The combined savings from these programs can be life-changing. I’ve seen clients go from choosing between groceries and medications to having both comfortably covered.

Remember, these programs exist because Maryland recognizes that healthcare shouldn’t bankrupt you. Don’t let pride or confusion stop you from applying – these benefits are yours if you qualify.

What to Expect After Applying

After you’ve submitted your Medicare application in Maryland, you’re probably wondering what comes next. The waiting game begins, but don’t worry—I’ve helped thousands of folks navigate this exact process, and I’ll walk you through everything that happens after you hit that submit button.

Processing Timeline

So how long does it actually take? Well, grab a cup of coffee because you’re looking at about 2-4 weeks for your application to process.

If you applied online, you’re in the fast lane. Online applications typically get processed in 10-14 business days. Not too shabby, right?

Phone and in-person applications? They’re a bit slower—usually 3-4 weeks. The Social Security Administration processes around 10,000 Medicare applications daily, so yeah, they’re pretty swamped.

Here’s something most people don’t know: applications submitted at the beginning of the month often process faster. Why? Because there’s less of a backlog from the previous month. I’ve seen applications submitted on the 2nd or 3rd get approved in just 7 days.

And if you’re applying during your Initial Enrollment Period? Good news—these get priority processing. The SSA knows you’re on a deadline, so they bump you up in the queue.

What if it’s taking longer than expected? Don’t panic. Sometimes they need additional verification, especially if you’ve changed your name or have complex work history. After 30 days, though, definitely give them a call at 1-800-772-1213.

Medicare Card and Coverage Start Date

Your shiny new Medicare card arrives about 7-10 days after your application gets approved. It comes in a plain white envelope—nothing fancy, but trust me, it’s important stuff.

The card shows your Medicare number (which isn’t your Social Security number anymore—they changed that for security reasons). You’ll see your name exactly as it appears in Social Security’s records, plus your coverage start dates for Part A and Part B.

When does coverage actually kick in? That depends on when you enrolled:

If you signed up during the 3 months before turning 65, your coverage starts on your birthday month. Pretty convenient, huh?

Enrolled during your birthday month? Coverage begins the first day of the following month. So if you turn 65 on July 15th and enroll in July, you’re covered starting August 1st.

Applied during the 3 months after your birthday month? Here’s where it gets a bit messy. Coverage starts 2-3 months after you enroll. Yeah, I know—not ideal. That’s why I always tell people to enroll early.

Special circumstances? If you qualify due to disability or ESRD, different rules apply. Disability-based Medicare starts on the 25th month of receiving SSDI benefits. ESRD coverage can begin as early as the month you start dialysis training.

One thing that catches people off guard: your Part B premium. It’s $174.70 for 2024, and they’ll automatically deduct it from your Social Security check if you’re receiving benefits. No Social Security yet? You’ll get a quarterly bill instead.

Next Steps After Enrollment

Alright, you’ve got your card—now what? Time to make some important decisions.

First up: deciding between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage. You’ve got until December 7th of your enrollment year to switch if you change your mind. That’s your Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period, and trust me, you don’t want to miss it.

Next, think about prescription drug coverage. If you’re sticking with Original Medicare, you’ll need a standalone Part D plan. Maryland has about 24 different Part D plans in 2024, with monthly premiums ranging from $6 to $111. Yeah, that’s quite a spread.

Here’s my advice: use Medicare’s Plan Finder tool at Medicare.gov. Plug in your medications and it’ll show you which plans cover them and at what cost. I’ve seen people save $2,000+ a year just by picking the right plan.

Don’t forget about Medigap. These supplemental policies help cover that 20% coinsurance that Original Medicare doesn’t pay. But here’s the kicker—you’ve only got 6 months from when your Part B starts to get guaranteed acceptance. Miss that window and insurance companies can turn you down or charge you more based on your health.

Schedule your Welcome to Medicare visit too. It’s free, and you’ve got 12 months to use it. Your doctor will review your health history, check your vitals, and create a preventive care plan. Plus, they’ll make sure you’re up to date on screenings like mammograms and colonoscopies.

Maryland residents? Take advantage of SHIP counseling. These folks are Medicare wizards, and their advice is completely free. They’ll sit down with you, review your options, and help you make sense of it all. Call 1-800-243-3425 to find your local SHIP office.

One last thing—keep that Medicare card safe. Identity thieves love stealing Medicare numbers. I tell everyone to make a copy, black out all but the last 4 digits, and carry that instead. Keep the original locked up at home unless you actually need it for a medical appointment.

And remember, Medicare doesn’t call you out of the blue asking for your number or banking info. If someone does, hang up immediately. It’s a scam, plain and simple.

Conclusion

Exploring Medicare enrollment in Maryland doesn’t have to be overwhelming when you know where to turn for help. You’ve got access to powerful resources like SHIP counselors who’ll guide you through every step at no cost. Whether you’re approaching 65 or helping a loved one understand their options you’re now equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions.

Remember, timing matters when it comes to Medicare. Missing enrollment windows can lead to penalties and coverage gaps that’ll impact your healthcare costs for years. But with Maryland’s robust support system including local Social Security offices and specialized assistance programs you’re never alone in this process.

Take action today by gathering your documents and marking key dates on your calendar. Your health coverage is too important to leave to chance. Maryland’s Medicare resources are ready to help you secure the benefits you’ve earned and deserve.