Are you approaching retirement and wondering how to fill out your Medicare application? You may have your IRA and estate planning in place, but where do you go for Medicare information? Well, keep reading for instructions on how to obtain Medicare, whether you're applying for Social Security benefits or not.

For Those Who Get Social Security Checks

If you are 65 or older and are already receiving Social Security benefits, you don't need to do anything to apply for Medicare. By registering for Social Security, you are automatically enrolled in Medicare (Parts A and B) the very month you turn 65 and without filling out a Medicare application.

For example, if your 65th birthday falls on September 19, 2009, you will be eligible for Medicare beginning on September 01, 2009. Your Medicare card is then mailed to you about two to three months before your 65th birthday. If you don't want Medicare Part B, then simply follow the enclosed instructions and return the card.

When Seeking Social Security and Medicare Together

If you're coming up on 65 but have yet to apply for Social Security and Medicare, you should do so at least three to four months before your 65th birthday. Applying for Social Security will automatically register you for Medicare. Failure to apply on time could result in your benefits being delayed.

Eligibility for Medicare

Generally, most people are eligible for Medicare - as long as you or your spouse worked for a minimum of 10 years with a Medicare-covered employer (most employment scenarios are eligible), are over the age of 65 and currently a resident in the United States. Those with certain types of long-term illness or a disability may also qualify for Medicare.

How to Apply

To apply for Medicare and Social Security, visit a local Social Security Office or call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213. You can also fill out an application online at their website, which can be found at socialsecurity.gov.

Not everyone is eligible for the online application profess. First, you must prove your identity by answering several questions about yourself and past tax returns. Next, you must meet certain requirements such as - be over the age of 61 years and 9 months, planning to begin receiving Social Security benefits in the next 4 months, able to receive your benefits via direct deposit and be a permanent resident of the United States.

Applying for Medicare, but not Social Security

If you do not receive Social Security or do not plan to receive Social Security benefits, you can still obtain Medicare. To do so, you must fill out a separate Medicare application. You can do so by calling the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or visiting a local Social Security office.