Can an individual apply for Medicare Part A only?

An individual can apply for Medicare Part A only, according to the Social Security Administration. When applying for Part A, an individual is asked if he wants to sign up for Part B as well. The individual is allowed to decline the invitation to apply for Part B.

If an individual is accidentally automatically enrolled in both parts of Medicare, he can drop Part B by sending the Medicare card back before coverage begins, according to Medicare.gov. If he keeps the card, he is charged for Part B premiums. Once coverage begins, the individual needs to contact a Social Security office to drop Part B.