1. Review when to enroll
Your Initial Enrollment Period generally spans seven months: three months before the month you turn 65, your birthday month, and three months after. Different timing can apply if your birthday is on the first day of a month or if you qualify based on disability or another circumstance.
2. Decide whether to enroll in Part B
Active employer group coverage may allow some people to delay Part B without penalty. COBRA, retiree coverage, VA coverage, and individual Marketplace coverage are not interchangeable with active-employer coverage for Medicare enrollment purposes. Verify your situation before delaying.
3. Apply through Social Security
Social Security processes Medicare Part A and Part B applications. Use the official SSA website and confirm the effective dates shown in your approval information.
Sign Up Through Social Security
4. Choose how to receive coverage
After Parts A and B are established, compare Original Medicare with a possible Medicare Supplement and Part D plan against available Medicare Advantage options.
5. Do not leave a gap
Coordinate the end date of employer or individual coverage with Medicare and any new plan effective dates. Do not cancel existing coverage based only on an application or appointment.