Q. I recently retired from the Veterans Affairs Department and applied for Medicare Part B coverage. My FEHBP is still in effect. The Social Security office sent forms that appear to need agency certification. Who does this? The employing agency or OPM? I’m not getting answers. OPM’s number is constantly busy, and my former human resources office isn’t returning calls. I’m trying to get the coverage and avoid any financial disaster.
A. Since you are retired, no certification is needed from any organization. For confirmation and further instructions, call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 and talk to a benefits specialist.