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Medicare

Get answers to your questions about Medicare, including how to apply, get a replacement card, and what is Part D for prescription drugs. Also, learn about Medicare coverage when you live abroad.

Medicare Eligibility, Applications, and Appeals

Find information about Medicare, how to apply, report fraud, and submit complaints.

What help is available?

Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people:

  • Age 65 or older

  • Under 65 with certain disabilities

  • Any age with end-stage renal disease. This is permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Medicare has four parts:

Medicare is managed by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The Social Security Administration works with CMS by enrolling people in Medicare.

Am I eligible?

How do I apply?

There are several ways to enroll in Medicare:

How do I check the status of my application?

How do I complain or appeal a Medicare decision?

How do I report fraud?

Who do I contact for extra help?

For questions about billing or other information, contact Medicare by phone or mail.

Is there anything else I need to know?

Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D)

Part D of Medicare is an insurance coverage plan for prescription medication. Learn about the costs for Medicare drug coverage.

Eligibility

Prescription drug coverage (Medicare Part D) is available to anyone with Medicare.  

How to Apply

There are two ways to get Medicare drug coverage:

  • Add a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D) to your Medicare-approved insurance policy.
  • Get a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) such as an HMO or PPO that offers Medicare prescription drug coverage.

Learn more about Medicare Part D.

When You Can Apply or Change Your Plan

Get Help With Medicare Part D

If you need help with Medicare Part D including finding a plan, applying, paying for coverage, or if you have a complaint, visit Medicare’s resources section. If you need more assistance paying for your prescriptions under Medicare Part D, you may qualify for the Extra Help program.

Contact Medicare

For help with specific issues, contact Medicare.

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Last Updated: April 6, 2022

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