Should I Sign Up for Medicare at 65?
Most people should sign up for Medicare during their Initial Enrollment Period around their 65th birthday. The main exception is if you have group health coverage through active employment at an employer with 20 or more employees.
When This Applies
- You are approaching 65
- You are unsure whether to start Medicare now
- You have other health coverage and wonder if Medicare is needed
- You want to avoid late enrollment penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
- When exactly is my IEP?
- It starts 3 months before your 65th birthday month, includes your birthday month, and ends 3 months after.
- Will I be auto-enrolled?
- If you've been receiving Social Security for at least 4 months before turning 65, you'll be automatically enrolled in Parts A and B.
- What if my birthday is on the 1st?
- If your birthday is on the 1st of the month, your IEP starts one month earlier than you might expect. Medicare considers your eligibility month to be the month before.