How to Enroll in Medicare

Please note:

If You Are Already Collecting Social Security: Medicare automatically starts on the first day of your birth month at age 65. You will receive a Medicare card in the mail with Part A & Part B included.

If You Are NOT Collecting Social Security: You must proactively enroll in Medicare Part A & B to start on the first day of your birth month.

1. Check your enrollment period window:
   1. Turning 65: Start three months before your 65^th birthday if you are not keeping your Creditable Coverage through an employer.
   2. Leaving Employer Coverage: Start two months before coverage will end.  Reminder: Medicare always starts on the first of the month.
   3. Missed Enrollment Period: Use General Enrollment Period, January – March.
2. Gather documents:
   1. Birth certificate or passport
   2. Social Security card
   3. Proof of current health coverage (if applicable)
3. Choose your enrollment method: Medicare cards usually take 4-8 weeks to arrive. We highly encourage you to start the process as soon as the timeline allows.
   1. Online: Visit SSA.gov and follow the prompts
      Tip: If you have an identity-theft protection subscription (e.g. LifeLock) enabled, your SSA.gov dashboard may become inaccessible.
   2. By phone: Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213
   3. In person: Schedule an appointment at your local Social Security office.
4. If you delayed your enrollment and kept Creditable Coverage through an employer:
   1. You and your company need to fill out: https://secure.ssa.gov/mpboa/medicare-part-b-online-application/
5. Select additional coverage: Once you receive your Medicare ID number, then contact us to discuss your options for additional coverage.
   1. Medicare Advantage (Part C)
      
      OR

1. 1. Prescription Drug Plan (Part D)
   2. Medigap (Supplemental insurance)

After you enroll: Expect your insurance card in the mail within 10-12 business days.

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