How to Enroll in Medicare in Georgia: A Step-by-Step Guide

Approaching age 65 in Georgia? Enrolling in Medicare can seem complicated, but this clear guide is tailored specifically to Georgians, showing you exactly what to do next.

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Most Georgians become eligible for Medicare at age 65. If you’re already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits, you’ll be enrolled automatically.

Step 2: Know Your Enrollment Period

• Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): Begins 3 months before your 65th birthday, includes your birthday month, and extends 3 months afterward.
• General Enrollment Period: January 1 – March 31 annually (if you missed your IEP).
• Special Enrollment Period (SEP): Available if you delay enrollment due to existing employer-sponsored health coverage.

Step 3: Understand Medicare Coverage Options

Georgia residents typically choose from:

• Part A (Hospital)
• Part B (Medical)
• Part C (Medicare Advantage)
• Part D (Prescription Drugs)
• Medicare Supplement (Medigap): Popular among Georgians for broader healthcare coverage and predictable costs.

Step 4: How to Enroll in Medicare for Georgia Residents

You have three straightforward enrollment options:

Option A: Enroll Online (Recommended)

• Visit Social Security’s Medicare Enrollment page. It’s quick and secure.

Option B: Enroll by Phone

• Call Social Security: 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778)
• Available Monday-Friday, 8:00 am–7:00 pm EST.

Option C: Visit Your Local Georgia Social Security Office

Below are key Social Security offices for Metro Atlanta residents:

Click here to find your nearest Georgia Social Security office if your location isn’t listed above.

Step 5: Delaying Medicare Part B

If you’re still employed and covered by a group health plan when you turn 65, you can enroll in Medicare Part A only (hospital insurance, typically premium-free).

How to Enroll in Part A Only:

• Visit the Social Security Medicare Enrollment page, call Social Security, or visit your local office and clearly specify you’re enrolling in Part A only.

Enrolling in Part B Later:

When you’re ready to retire or lose your employer coverage, you’ll have an 8-month Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to enroll in Part B without penalties.

Required Forms for Delayed Enrollment:

• Part B Online Enrollment Form: Application for enrollment in Part B. This is done online.
• CMS Form L564: Request for Employment Information to prove you had creditable coverage from your employer. You’ll need to print, complete, sign, and upload to your online Part B enrollment.

Step 6: After Enrollment—What Georgians Should Expect

You’ll typically receive your Medicare card in about three weeks. This is the ideal time to choose additional coverage, such as a Medigap or Medicare Advantage plan. Georgia residents commonly opt for Medigap due to its flexibility and comprehensive coverage.

Frequently Asked Medicare Questions in Georgia

Can I keep my current doctor with Medicare Advantage in Georgia?
Check your chosen Medicare Advantage plan’s provider network to confirm.

Do I have to enroll in Medicare at 65 if I’m still employed in Georgia?
If your employer has 20+ employees, you can delay enrollment without a penalty.

Personalized Medicare Assistance in Georgia

Still have questions? Andy Stroman of Stroman Insurance Services in Marietta, GA, specializes in guiding Georgians through Medicare enrollment decisions. Schedule a free consultation today to clarify your options.