Getting Started With Medicare

Enrolling

Turning 65

You can sign up during the 7-month period that begins 3 months before the month you turn 65, includes the month you turn 65, and ends 3 months after the month you turn 65.

Individuals who qualify and are already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) benefits may be automatically enrolled in Medicare. You’ll automatically get Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) starting the first day of the month you turn 65. If your birthday is on the first day of the month, it will start on the first day of the previous month. You will receive your red, white, and blue Medicare card 3 months before your 65th birthday in the mail.

If you have not been receiving Social Security or RRB benefits for at least 4 months before you turn 65 you will need to contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) to enroll. Timing is important because Medicare has specific rules on when you can enroll and it depends on your specific circumstance.

You can:

  1. Apply online at Social Security.
  2. Visit your local Social Security office.
  3. Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213. TTY users should call 1-800-325-0778.

Postponing Medicare

Working past age 65 is common and many people have employer group health insurance that will continue until retirement. You may postpone going onto Part B and Part D while you are working but you will want to make sure that Medicare views your current coverage as creditable coverage to avoid any late enrollment penalties. You can check with Social Security and your employer’s HR department to make sure that your current coverage qualifies. Certain Medicare plan selection rights are extended to you in a 63-day window after the termination of your eligible group health plan, and within 8 months if you are new to Part B.

Medicare Under 65

You may be eligible to receive Medicare under age 65 if you have certain health conditions or have been receiving Social Security Disability (SSD) for 24 months. If you are on Medicare before age 65, when you turn 65 you have initial election period rights just like a newly eligible beneficiary that may make additional coverage options accessible to you.