You can enroll for the Medicare program at your local Social Security Office. This is not meant to be an in-depth look at Medicare, so direct your questions to the Social Security Office.
MEDICARE Part A. This helps with hospital bills. You are eligible for Part A (and Part B) if you are 65 or older, or if you are disabled and have been receiving Social Security Disability for a period of two years. Part A is free for those who have contributed to Social Security. Part A can be purchased for those who have not, but it is expensive.
MEDICARE Part B. This goes towards the paying of other medical bills (besides hospital coverage). There is a premium involved with this coverage. Only if you have received SSD for 24 months will you be offered Part B without the premium.
NOTE: In 2007 income has effect on the amount paid to Medicare. Individuals earning over 80,000 dollars (160,000 for individual and spouse) will be paying higher premiums. There is a three year phase in portion to this program.
MEDICARE Part D. This is prescription drug coverage. This went into effect on January 1, 2006.
NOTE: It you are on NSC Pension and pay for MEDICARE Part B or Part D*, these are legitimate medical deductions for non-reimbursed medical expenses.
MEDICARE recognizes TRICARE and VA enrollment as enrollment in a recognized prescription drug plan. This means there will be no penalty down the road if one enrolls in an outside drug plan.
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