Who Do I contact-Social Security or Medicare

Social Security Column

By Tom Winschel         

Social Security District Manager in Pittsburgh, PA

Social Security offers retirement, disability, and survivors benefits.  Medicare provides health insurance.  Because these services are often related, you may not know which agency to contact for help.  The table below can help you quickly figure out where to go.  Please share this table with family and friends.

TopicSocial SecurityMedicareResources
How do I report a death?X Contact your local Social Security Office or call 1-800-772-1213(TTY 1-800-325-0778) 
How can I check Medicare eligibility?X www.socialsecurity.gov/benefits/medicare  
What does Medicare cover? Xwww.medicare.gov/what-medicare-covers 
How do I sign up for Hospital Insurance?(Part A)X www.socialsecurity.gov/benefits/medicare   
How do I sign up for Medical Insurance?(Part B)X www.socialsecurity.gov/benefits/medicare   
How do I apply for Extra Help with Medicare Prescription drug coverage?(Part D)X www.socialsecurity.gov/benefits/medicare/prescriptionhelp
How can I check the status of Medicare Part A or B claims? Xwww.mymedicare.gov 
Where do I find forms for filing a Medicare appeal or let someone speak with Medicare on my behalf? Xwww.medicare.gov/claims-appeals/how-do-i-file-an-appeal
How to appeal an income-related monthly adjustment amount decision?for people who pay a higher Part B or D premium, if their income is over a certain amountX  www.socialsecurity.gov/benefits/disability/appeal.html 
How can I request a replacement Medicare card online?X www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount 
If I already get benefits or have Medicare, how do I report a change of address or phone number?X www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount
What do Medicare health and prescription drug plans in my area cost, and what services do they offer? Xwww.medicare.gov/plan-compare
Which doctors, health care providers, and suppliers participate in Medicare? Xwww.medicare.gov/forms-help-resources/find-compare-doctors-hospitals-other-providers 
Where do I find publications about Medicare?XXwww.ssa.gov/pubs/?topic=Medicarewww.medicare.gov/publications  
Where can I find out more about a Medicare prescription drug plan (Part D) and enroll? Xwww.medicare.gov/drug-coverage-part-d/how-to-get-prescription-drug-coverage   
Where can I find a Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) policy in my area? Xwww.medicare.gov/medigap-supplemental-insurance-plans