Chart: Who do I call? Social Security or Medicare?
Where to Go for Help with Medicare and Social Security
The Social Security Administration (SSA) manages much of the paperwork for Medicare — but not everything.
If you need assistance, it’s important to contact the right agency for your specific issue.
Keep in mind that call wait times can be lengthy on both agencies’ toll-free numbers:
- Social Security: 800-772-1213
- Medicare: 800-633-4227
To save time, you can often find what you need faster by visiting their websites.
The table below outlines several key government programs that many adults age 62 and older depend on — along with the best ways to get help online.
| Social Security payments, including retirement, spousal, survivor or disability | ssa.gov |
| Supplemental Security Income for those with limited income and resources | ssa.gov |
| Medicare Part A hospitalization and Part B medical insurance | ssa.gov |
| • Delaying Part B coverage if you were automatically enrolled * | ssa.gov |
| • Paying premiums for Part A or Part B if they aren’t deducted from your check | medicare.gov |
| Medicare Advantage plan comparison and enrollment | medicare.gov |
| Medicare Part D prescription drug plan comparison and enrollment | medicare.gov |
| Medicare supplement insurance, aka Medigap plans, comparison | medicare.gov |
| Medicaid health insurance for those with limited income and resources | medicaid.gov |
| • Medicare Savings Programs to help with Part A and Part B costs | medicaid.gov |
| • Extra Help for Part D prescription plans | ssa.gov |
* If you automatically received your Medicare card showing enrollment in Parts A and B because you began receiving Social Security benefits at least four months before turning 65, you’ll need to mail the card back to the address listed on the form to indicate that you do not want Part B coverage at this time.
Source: Social Security Administration, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
