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Enrollment Guide

Applying For Medicare

Understand exactly what you will pay for Medicare Part A, Part B, and Part D, and how to avoid costly penalties.

Watch: Medicare Enrollment Explained

Most people become eligible and enroll in Medicare when they turn 65. The process of applying for Medicare is done through the Social Security Administration as they are the agency responsible for verifying Medicare eligibility and for processing applications for Medicare Part A and Part B.
They offer several easy ways to apply for Medicare so you can choose the option that works best for you. Additionally, there are several different enrollment periods that you can use to enroll in Medicare based on your personal situation; however, in general, it is recommended to begin your enrollment process three months before your Medicare coverage is expected to begin.

Still Working at 65?

If you or your spouse are still working when you turn 65 and wish to stay on your employer’s group health insurance, then you can delay signing up for Part B until you retire in the future.

Your Initial Enrollment Period When Turning 65

Your initial enrollment period (IEP) is a 7-month window that allows you to sign up for Original Medicare (Parts A and B) when you first turn 65. It starts 3 calendar months before the month you turn 65 and continues for 3 months after.
This means if you turn 65 on June 25, you can submit your enrollment paperwork as early as March 1. In fact, one of the best ways to ensure a smooth enrollment is to get started as soon as possible.
Another important thing to note is that Medicare coverage always starts on the first day of the month. This means that as long as you apply for Original Medicare in the 3 months prior to your birth month, then your coverage will begin the first day of your birth month.
Born on the 1st of the month? If so, you qualify for a little-known exception where your Medicare coverage will actually begin 1 month prior to your birth month. For example, if you were born on June 1st, your coverage would begin on May 1st of the year you turn 65.

Initial Enrollment Period Reference Chart

When Should I Enroll In Medicare Chart showing 65th Birthday Month, Initial Enrollment Period Begins (3 months before), and Ends (3 months after)
Use this chart to easily find your specific 7-month enrollment window based on your birthday month.

How To Apply For Medicare

You May Be Automatically Enrolled

If you start receiving Social Security retirement benefits at least 4 months before your 65th birthday, then you will be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B. You will receive your Medicare card in the mail about 3 months prior to your birth month.
If you are NOT receiving Social Security retirement benefits before you turn 65, then you will simply need to apply for Original Medicare by using one of the 4 methods listed below.

Apply Online

The most common way to apply is through the Social Security website. The process is very easy and only takes about 5 to 10 minutes.

Visit Social Security Website

Apply By Phone

Contact Social Security directly to apply over the phone. Depending on your situation, they may mail you simple forms to complete.

Call 1-800-772-1213

Apply By Mail

Best for those 65+ who already have Part A, but now need Part B (often after leaving group coverage). You will need to mail forms CMS 40-B and CMS-L564 to your local office.

Download forms at CMS.gov

Apply In Person

Applying at your local Social Security office is the best option if you need your application processed quickly. Be sure to ask for a printed confirmation showing you have enrolled.

Find Local Office

What is the next step after I apply?

Congratulations, you are one step closer to your new Medicare coverage! Because Original Medicare doesn’t cover all of your medical costs, submitting your application is simply the first step.
The next step is to identify the supplemental insurance coverage that will best fit your needs and budget. Our licensed agents at Medicare Hero make shopping for coverage simple, easy, and stress-free.
Call 1-888-321-6361
Continue: Compare Medicare Plans

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