I am about to retire from my job. I am 70 yrs old. How can I receive Medicare part b. I'm already receiving ss check.

Hi. You'll need to file an application with Social Security. If you've had primary health insurance coverage through your job then you should be able to start Part B coverage as early as the month that you apply. People with employer group health plans (EGHP) get a special enrollment period (SEP) allowing them to sign up for Part B with no delay or premium penalty when their EGHP coverage ends.

However, if you haven't been covered through an EGHP then you'd have to apply for Part B coverage during a general enrollment period (GEP), and a premium penalty would likely apply. GEPs occur annually during the months January through March.

The application form for Part B can be found on the following Medicare website: https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/CMS-Forms/CMS-Forms/Downloads/CMS40B-E.pdf. If you apply during an SEP you'll also need to have your employer complete the following form: https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/CMS-Forms/CMS-Forms/Downloads/CMS-L564E.PDF.

Best, Jerry