When I apply for social security, am I going to automatically get Medicare Part A? Does this go back 6 months? I don't understand how that will work. I'm 69 and still working so I have not enrolled in Medicare

Hi,

Yes, if you're at least age 65 and eligible for Social Security benefits you will automatically be enrolled in Part A of Medicare when you apply for your benefits. And, if you file your application at least 6 months after the month you turn age 65 the effective date of your Part A coverage would be 6 months prior to the month of your application. You can't choose a different month of Part A entitlement other than by delaying filing an application for Social Security benefits.

For example, say Bill will turn age 70 in November 2018 and files an application for his retirement benefits in July 2018. Even if Bill chooses November 2018 as his month to start benefit entitlement, he will automatically be enrolled in Part A of Medicare effective January 1 2018 (i.e. 6 months prior to the month of his application.)

Best, Jerry