Life goes on, even during this period (and who knows how long it will last?) of social distancing and work-from-home brought on by the now-infamous coronavirus. Those of us born in 1955 are still going to turn 65 this year, coronavirus or not! What to do about it? What has changed, what is new?

Julie Carter recently wrote an enlightening article explaining how those eligible to enroll can do so either by online application, via phone (1-800-772-1213 from 7 AM to 7 PM, Monday through Friday), or through the mail. Planning is essential, as it may take the SSA up to 21 days to process a Medicare application.

Medicare Part B. The article also mentions: “People applying for Medicare Part B due to a loss of employment or group health coverage will also need to complete form CMS-L564 (Request for Employment Information). Currently, some beneficiaries are experiencing difficulties gathering this paperwork. SSA seems to recognize these challenges, but clarity is needed on how the agency plans to alleviate this administrative burden during the emergency period.”

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has an FAQ page to answer Coronavirus questions. Read the entire article here »