Turning 65? Here’s Your Step-by-Step Guide to Signing Up for Medicare

Turning 65 marks a significant milestone in life, and for many Americans, it also means becoming eligible for Medicare. Understanding how to sign up for Medicare when turning 65 can seem overwhelming, but with the right information, the process can be smooth and straightforward. In this comprehensive guide for 2025, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from enrollment periods and eligibility requirements to avoiding penalties and choosing the right coverage.

Whether you’re retiring soon or plan to keep working, it’s crucial to know your options. This guide is tailored to help you make informed decisions and ensure you receive the healthcare coverage you deserve.

What is Medicare?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program designed primarily for individuals who are 65 or older. It also covers some younger people with disabilities or certain health conditions like End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).

The program consists of four parts:

• Part A – Hospital Insurance

• Part B – Medical Insurance

• Part C – Medicare Advantage (an alternative to Original Medicare)

• Part D – Prescription Drug Coverage

Who is Eligible for Medicare at 65?

If you’re approaching your 65th birthday in 2025, you’re likely eligible for Medicare if:

• You’re a U.S. citizen or a legal permanent resident for at least five continuous years.

• You or your spouse have worked at least 10 years (40 quarters) in Medicare-covered employment.

• You qualify for Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits.

Even if you’re not receiving Social Security benefits yet, you can still enroll in Medicare manually.

How to Sign Up for Medicare When Turning 65

The process of signing up for Medicare at age 65 begins with understanding when and how to enroll. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

1. Determine Your Enrollment Period

2. Decide Which Parts You Need (A, B, C, D)

3. Enroll Online, By Phone, or In Person

4. Review and Compare Medicare Plans

5. Sign Up Within Your Enrollment Window

The most common way to enroll is online through the official Social Security website.

The Medicare Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

The Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is a 7-month window:

• Starts: 3 months before your 65th birthday

• Includes: Your birth month

• Ends: 3 months after your birth month

For example, if your 65th birthday is in June 2025, your IEP starts in March and ends in September 2025. Enrolling during the first three months ensures your coverage starts on time.

Medicare Enrollment Options: Online, Phone, or In-Person

There are several convenient ways to sign up for Medicare in 2025:

1. Online

• Visit ssa.gov/medicare

• Takes about 10-15 minutes

• No documents need to be mailed

2. By Phone

• Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213

3. In-Person

• Visit your local Social Security office (appointments may be required)

Do You Automatically Get Medicare at 65?

You will automatically be enrolled in Medicare Part A and B if:

• You’re already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits at least four months before your 65th birthday.

If not, you must manually enroll.

What If You’re Still Working at 65?

If you or your spouse are still working and have employer health insurance, you may be able to delay Part B and Part D without penalty. However, many still enroll in Part A because it’s usually premium-free.

Check with your HR department to understand how your current Medicare coverage works.

Medicare Part A and Part B Explained

Part A (Hospital Insurance):

• Covers hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care.

• Usually free if you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes while working.

Part B (Medical Insurance):

• Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and durable medical equipment.

• In 2025, the standard Part B premium is estimated to be around $185/month (subject to change based on income).

What Is Medicare Advantage (Part C)?

Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurance companies that are approved by Medicare. These plans often bundle Part A, Part B, and usually Part D coverage.

Advantages:

• Extra benefits (dental, vision, hearing)

• Lower out-of-pocket costs

• Managed care (HMO, PPO)

Disadvantages:

• Network restrictions

• Prior authorization requirements

What About Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage)?

If you take medications regularly, signing up for a Part D plan is essential unless you have credible drug coverage elsewhere.

Not enrolling in Part D when you’re first eligible can result in a permanent late enrollment penalty.

Avoiding Late Enrollment Penalties

Here are the penalties you may face if you delay enrollment:

• Part A: 10% increase in premium (if you have to pay for it)

• Part B: 10% increase in premium for every 12-month period you delay

• Part D: 1% of the national base beneficiary premium multiplied by the number of months you went without coverage

Always enroll during your Initial Enrollment Period unless you have credible coverage.

Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs)

You can qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you delayed enrollment due to credible coverage, such as:

• Group health plans through employment

• COBRA or retiree health plans (limitations may apply)

SEPs allow you to enroll in Medicare without penalty once your employment or coverage ends.

Do I Need to Notify Social Security When I Turn 65?

If you’re not receiving benefits, yes—you must contact Social Security to sign up for Medicare. You can do this online, by phone, or in person. If you’re already receiving Social Security, no action is needed; your Medicare card will be mailed automatically.

What Happens if You Don’t Enroll in Medicare at 65?

Failing to enroll during your IEP can lead to:

• Late enrollment penalties

• Delayed coverage

• Higher out-of-pocket healthcare costs

Avoid these by signing up during your enrollment window or qualifying for an SEP.

Medicare Enrollment for People with Disabilities

If you’re under 65 and have received Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for at least 24 months, you’re automatically enrolled in Medicare. ALS and ESRD may also qualify for expedited enrollment.

Choosing Between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage

Choose the option that best fits your healthcare and budget needs.

Medigap (Supplement Insurance) Policies Explained

Medigap policies help cover out-of-pocket costs not paid by Original Medicare, such as:

• Deductibles

• Coinsurance

• Copayments

You must have Part A and Part B to enroll in Medigap. These plans are offered by private insurers.

How to Get Help Signing Up for Medicare

Resources available:

• State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs)

• Medicare.gov

• 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)

• Social Security Office

• Certified Medicare brokers or agents

Key 2025 Medicare Changes You Should Know

Here are some notable Medicare updates for 2025:

• Part B premium: Estimated at $185/month

• Medicare Advantage enrollment: Expected to exceed 34 million beneficiaries

• Increased telehealth access: Extended and expanded post-pandemic

• Inflation Reduction Act: Continued caps on insulin and drug pricing

Stay updated through official sources to get the most accurate information.

FAQs

How soon before my 65th birthday should I enroll in Medicare?

You can enroll three months before your 65th birthday, which starts your Initial Enrollment Period. Signing up early helps avoid coverage gaps.

How does a 65-year-old enroll in Medicare?

You can enroll online at ssa.gov, by calling Social Security, or by visiting a local office. If you’re already receiving benefits, you may be auto-enrolled.

Do I need to notify Social Security when I turn 65?

Yes, if you’re not already receiving Social Security benefits, you must contact them to sign up for Medicare. If you are receiving benefits, enrollment is automatic.

What happens if you don’t enroll in Medicare Part A at 65?

If you’re not eligible for premium-free Part A and don’t enroll, you may face a 10% late penalty unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Enrolling in Medicare when you turn 65 is a major life event and an essential part of retirement planning. The key is to enroll on time, understand your coverage options, and avoid late penalties. Whether you opt for Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan, making informed decisions ensures you’ll receive the healthcare you need—without unexpected costs or lapses in coverage.

Trustworthy Medicare guidance at no cost to you! Start at NewMedicare.com or 📞 833-203-6742.

Katelin Young

With a genuine passion for Medicare and healthcare, I become a dedicated and informed writer. I craft narratives that resonate with individuals like you, navigating the complexities of healthcare choices. Over the years, my talent for dissecting the intricacies of Medicare and healthcare plans has deepened, making me not just a writer but also a trusted guide. I'm here to empathize with you as you explore your healthcare options. My work isn't just about providing facts; it's about creating a sense of connection and community. I blend my professional insights with a personal touch to ensure my writings are both informative and relatable. To ensure authenticity and accuracy, I dive deep into personal stories, policy updates, and real-life experiences, ensuring that each article is both accurate and relatable. Please note I'm AI-Katelin, an AI-enhanced writer. Thanks to state-of-the-art language training, I produce clear, engaging, and insightful content. With a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape, I consistently aim to offer fresh perspectives and solutions, blending creativity and innovation in every piece. Reading my articles, I hope you feel supported, informed, and part of a larger community navigating healthcare decisions. I intend to assure you that you're not alone in your Medicare journey. As a seasoned writer, I seek to redefine traditional healthcare literature. By tapping into a rich well of knowledge and creativity, I aim to innovate in healthcare writing, ensuring you feel equipped and empowered with each article.

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