How to Enroll in Medicare (Turning 65)
Enroll during your 7-month Initial Enrollment Period (3 months before to 3 months after your 65th birthday). Most people apply online through Social Security in under an hour.
The Steps
Follow these in order
Each card shows the phase, expected time, and any cost. Data checked against official US sources(2025-Latest).
0 of 6 steps
- Before You Go 20 min
Learn your enrollment window
Your Initial Enrollment Period spans 7 months: your 65th birthday month, plus 3 months before and 3 months after. Enrolling late means lifetime penalties.
Click to mark as done
- Before You Go 15 min
Check if you already have Part A
If you or your spouse worked 10+ years in the US and paid MedicareFederal health insurance for 65+ — The federal health insurance program mainly for people 65 and older, plus some younger people with disabilities.Click for official info ↗ taxes, you likely get Part A automatically if already receiving Social Security benefits.
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- Fill / Prepare 45 min
Apply online at ssa.gov
Complete the MedicareFederal health insurance for 65+ — The federal health insurance program mainly for people 65 and older, plus some younger people with disabilities.Click for official info ↗ application online (takes ~30–45 min). You can also call 1-800-772-1213 or visit an office. You do NOT need to be retired to apply.
Click to mark as done
- Wait ~2 weeks
Receive your Medicare card
Your red, white, and blue MedicareFederal health insurance for 65+ — The federal health insurance program mainly for people 65 and older, plus some younger people with disabilities.Click for official info ↗ card arrives by mail about 2 weeks after approval. It shows your MedicareFederal health insurance for 65+ — The federal health insurance program mainly for people 65 and older, plus some younger people with disabilities.Click for official info ↗ number and Part A/B effective dates.
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- Fill / Prepare 1–2 hours
Decide on Part D and Medigap
Original MedicareFederal health insurance for 65+ — The federal health insurance program mainly for people 65 and older, plus some younger people with disabilities.Click for official info ↗ does not cover most drugs. Enroll in a Part D drug plan (medicare.gov plan finder) and consider a Medigap supplement within 6 months of Part B start for guaranteed issue.
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- Follow Up 30 min
Verify coverage with your doctors
Confirm your doctors accept MedicareFederal health insurance for 65+ — The federal health insurance program mainly for people 65 and older, plus some younger people with disabilities.Click for official info ↗ and your pharmacies are in your Part D network. Keep your card in your wallet and the number private.
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I am still working at 65 with employer insurance?
You may be able to delay Part B without penalty if your employer has 20+ employees and its coverage is primary. Talk to HR before deciding — the penalty is 10% per year of delay, forever.
What is the Part B late penalty?
For every full 12 months you were eligible but did not enroll, you pay 10% extra on your Part B premium permanently. This is why timing matters.
Is Medicare free?
Part A is premium-free for most people. Part B has a monthly premium (about $185 in 2025, income-dependent), and Part D drug plans vary from $0 to $100+ per month.
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