Enrolling in Medicare

Get started with Medicare

Navigating Medicare can feel overwhelming, but getting started doesn’t have to be! Whether you're new to Medicare or helping a loved one, understanding the basics is the first step. VisitMedicare.govto learn about your coverage options, eligibility, and enrollment process. Once you’ve reviewed the basics, follow the specific steps provided to make informed decisions about your healthcare. You can also talk to a Senior LinkAge Line specialist for help understanding your choices.

Turning 65

When you turn 65, you have a seven-month window to sign up for Medicare. This time period starts three months before your birthday month, includes your birthday month, and lasts for three months after your birthday. This is called your Initial Enrollment Period.

There are a few ways to enroll:

1. Automatic enrollment: If you're already getting Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits when you turn 65, you’ll be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A (hospital coverage) and Part B (medical coverage). You will receive a Welcome to Medicare packet in the mail three months before your birthday, which includes your Medicare card.
2. Self enrollment: If you’re not receiving benefits yet, you’ll need to sign up for Medicare yourself. You can do this online at the Social Security website, by calling Social Security at 800-772-1213 (TTY 800-325-0778), or by visiting a local Social Security office.

Under 65 and disabled

If you are under 65 and have a disability, you may also qualify for Medicare. After receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits for 24 months, you will be automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B in your 25th month of getting SSDI. You will receive a Welcome to Medicare packet in the mail three months before your 25th month of receiving Social Security benefits, which will include your Medicare card.

Some people with specific conditions like End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) may qualify for Medicare sooner and can enroll without waiting 24 months. 

Medicare Plan Finder

The Medicare Plan Finder is an easy-to-use online tool that helps you find and compare Medicare plans. You can look at different health and drug plans, check prices, and see what each plan covers. By entering your zip code and any medications you take, the tool shows you plans available in your area. It makes it simple to choose the best Medicare plan for your needs.

What happens if you miss your Enrollment Period?

If you don’t sign up for Medicare during your Initial Enrollment Period, you can still enroll during the General Enrollment Period, which runs from January 1 to March 31 each year. However, you may have to pay a late enrollment penalty for not signing up on time.

There are also Special Enrollment Periods if you or your spouse are still working and have health insurance through a job. In this case, you can sign up for Medicare without penalty when your job-based coverage ends.

Key takeaways

• You can enroll in Medicare starting three months before you turn 65
• If you are disabled and receive SSDI, you are automatically enrolled after 24 months.
• You can sign up online, by phone, or at a Social Security office.
• If you miss your Initial Enrollment Period, you may have to wait until the General Enrollment Period and could face penalties.