Turning 65? Here's when to sign up for Medicare
You have a 7-month window to sign up: the 3 months before the month you turn 65, your birthday month, and the 3 months after. Signing up before your birthday month means coverage can start the first day of that month.
Your sign-up timeline
This window is called your Initial Enrollment Period. It is the easiest time to get Medicare Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical).
If you already get Social Security benefits at least 4 months before you turn 65, you are usually signed up for Parts A and B automatically. Your Medicare card arrives in the mail.
- 3 months before your birthday month: window opens — the best time to start
- Your birthday month: you can still sign up
- 3 months after: window closes — waiting past this can mean a late penalty
Still working at 65?
If you or your spouse have health coverage from a current job, you may be able to wait on Part B without a penalty. Whether that works depends on the employer's size and the kind of coverage.
This is the question people most often get wrong. Check before you turn down Part B.
Two ways to get your coverage
Original Medicare is run by the federal government. Most people add a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy to help with out-of-pocket costs and a Part D plan for prescriptions.
Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. They bundle hospital, medical, and usually drug coverage, often with networks of doctors.
Neither is right for everyone. Your doctors, medicines, how much you travel, and your budget decide it.
Don't miss the Medigap window
If you want a Medicare Supplement policy, your best time to buy is the 6 months starting the month you are 65 and enrolled in Part B. During that window, insurers generally cannot turn you down or charge more because of your health.
What to bring to your appointment
Having these on hand makes one conversation enough:
- Your Medicare card (or your Social Security enrollment letter)
- A list of your prescription medicines and doses
- The names of your doctors and your preferred pharmacy
- Any job-based or retiree coverage information you have
How SRS helps
A licensed insurance agent at Senior Retirement Solutions in Lawrenceville, Georgia walks through your dates, doctors, and medicines in plain language. You can bring a family member. No decision is required on the first call.
Common questions
Do I have to sign up for Medicare at 65 if I'm still working?
Not always. If you have coverage from your own or your spouse's current job, you may be able to delay Part B. The rules depend on your employer, so check before you decide.
Does it cost anything to talk with a licensed agent?
Agents are paid by the insurance companies whose plans they help people enroll in, so there is no charge to you for the conversation.
Can I change my mind after I choose a plan?
Usually, yes, during certain times of year such as Open Enrollment from October 15 to December 7. Medigap is the exception: after your first window, switching can depend on your health.