Social Security and Medicare Benefits

Social Security and Medicare Benefits 

What is the Federal Benefits Unit (FBU)?

The FBU in Rome serves as a liaison between Americans residing in Italy and U.S. government programs like Social Security and Medicare. Their mission is to ensure that U.S. citizens and eligible individuals living abroad have access to their rightful benefits and support.

Key Services Provided by the FBU

The Federal Benefits Unit offers assistance with a range of services, including:

1. Social Security Benefits:

   • Applying for retirement, disability, or survivor benefits.

   • Addressing questions about benefit eligibility or payment amounts.

   • Managing changes to your benefits, such as direct deposit updates or reporting life events (e.g., marriage, divorce, or death).

2. Medicare Enrollment and Guidance:

   • Assisting with enrollment in Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance).

   • Providing information on how Medicare works overseas (note: Medicare does not generally cover healthcare outside the U.S.).

3. Obtaining Social Security Numbers (SSN):

   • Helping dependents or newly eligible individuals apply for a SSN.

4. W-2 and Tax Documents:

   • Providing guidance on accessing tax documents related to Social Security benefits.

5. General Assistance:

   • Addressing questions related to federal benefits and explaining how U.S. policies apply to expatriates.

How to Access FBU Services

The Federal Benefits Unit is located at the U.S. Embassy in Rome, but most inquiries can be handled without needing to visit in person. Here’s how to connect with them:

• Website: Visit the U.S. Embassy Rome Federal Benefits Unit page for detailed information and contact forms.

• Email: Use the secure inquiry form on their website to submit your questions.

• Phone: Limited phone services are available for urgent inquiries. Check the website for contact details and hours of operation.

• Appointments: If an in-person visit is necessary, schedule an appointment through the embassy’s online system.