We've been telling people how quick and easy it is to apply for Medicare benefits online—even if you're not ready to apply for retirement benefits.

And our celebrity spokespeople—the television family of The Patty Duke Show—have been spreading the word in a series of public service announcements. Reunite with televisio's favorite identical cousins, and the whole family, at www.socialsecurity.gov/medicareonly.

But perhaps the best advocates we have for the online Medicare application are the people who are using the application and discovering that it really does take less than 10 minutes. Just ask your average John.

John from Wisconsin told us, "filing for Medicare online was simple and I couldn't believe what little time it took to complete."

John from Indiana said, "This month I filed for Medicare at www.socialsecurity.gov. Filing online took less than five minutes from start to finish. Finding the place to start my application, answering its simple questions, and submitting my claim was an easy process. I will recommend using Social Security Online to others who want to apply for Medicare."

You don't have to be named John to appreciate the application. Kim of Wisconsin said, "I am so impressed with your website. It was possibly the easiest website I have ever navigated. I had put this off for a few months thinking it would be difficult with it being the federal government, but I am stunned and amazed at how quick and easy this really was."

Even if you decide to wait until after you're age 65 to apply for retirement benefits, most people should apply for Medicare coverage at age 65. If you'd like to begin your Medicare coverage, you should apply within four months of reaching age 65.

It's important to note that people who already receive Social Security retirement or disability benefits do not need to apply for Medicare; they will be automatically enrolled.

If you're within four months of age 65 or older, you can apply right now. Visit www.socialsecurity.gov and select the "Retirement/Medicare" link in the middle of the page.

Go online to apply for Medicare benefits, even if you're not ready to retire. It takes less than 10 minutes!

Ginny Jordan is a Public Affairs Specialist for the Social Security Administration. Her weekly column on all things Social Security appears in the Sunday Edition of the Sun-Sentinel.

Ginny has agreed to let us reprint her articles here for your convenience.

Thank you Ginny!