Although most individuals who file applications which establish HI entitlement will be automatically enrolled for SMI, there will continue to be cases in which the individual is not subject to deemed enrollment (e.g., those whose applications are denied and do not establish HI entitlement).

In any case where:

• •

  an individual expresses a desire for SMI during or shortly before an enrollment period, and

• •

  there is any doubt about the individual's HI entitlement,

the individual should be advised to file, as soon as possible, a signed statement that the individual wants SMI, preferably on a Form HCFA-4040 (Application for Enrollment in Supplementary Medical Insurance Benefits Plan).

Similarly, when a claim for HI (which may be part of a monthly benefit claim) is being disallowed and the individual is currently within an enrollment period, but has not specifically elected SMI, an election should be obtained before the enrollment period expires.