When should I first enroll in Medicare?

Your Initial Enrollment Period starts 3 months before the month you turn 65 and ends 3 months after — 7 months total. Enrolling in the first 3 months means coverage starts on the first day of your birthday month.

Do I have to enroll in all parts of Medicare?

Part A is usually automatic and premium-free. Part B and Part D are optional, but skipping them without qualifying coverage may result in permanent late enrollment penalties that last for life.

What if I am still working when I turn 65?

If your employer has 20 or more employees, you may delay Part B without penalty while actively working. With fewer than 20 employees, Medicare pays first at 65 — you should enroll in Part B during your IEP.

What is the biggest first-time enrollment mistake?

Assuming COBRA, retiree coverage, or a Marketplace plan lets you delay Part B. None of these count as qualifying active employer coverage under Medicare rules — all three can trigger a permanent Part B penalty.

Do I need to contact Social Security to sign up for Medicare?

Yes, unless you are already receiving Social Security benefits. Most first-time enrollees must contact Social Security to enroll in Parts A and B — online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at a local Social Security office. Apply during the first 3 months of your IEP for the earliest coverage start.

What if I am already receiving Social Security benefits when I turn 65?

You will be automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B. Your Medicare card will arrive in the mail before your 65th birthday. If you have qualifying active employer coverage and want to delay Part B, you must actively decline it when the card arrives — contact Social Security to do this.

Medicare First-Time Enrollment: What to Do When You Turn 65

Enrolling in Medicare for the first time? Your 7-month Initial Enrollment Period starts 3 months before your 65th birthday. Learn what to enroll in, what each part covers, and common mistakes to avoid.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I first enroll in Medicare?: Your Initial Enrollment Period starts 3 months before the month you turn 65 and ends 3 months after — 7 months total. Enrolling in the first 3 months means coverage starts on the first day of your birthday month.
Do I have to enroll in all parts of Medicare?: Part A is usually automatic and premium-free. Part B and Part D are optional, but skipping them without qualifying coverage may result in permanent late enrollment penalties that last for life.
What if I am still working when I turn 65?: If your employer has 20 or more employees, you may delay Part B without penalty while actively working. With fewer than 20 employees, Medicare pays first at 65 — you should enroll in Part B during your IEP.