If you already receive Social Security, Parts A and B start automatically; your card arrives about three months before your 65th birthday. If not, apply at ssa.gov during your Initial Enrollment Period; it takes about 10 minutes. Then choose how to fill the gaps: a Medigap plan plus a Part D plan, or a Medicare Advantage plan. We help with that second step at no cost.
Step 1: Parts A and B through Social Security
- Already on Social Security or Railroad Retirement? You are enrolled automatically. Watch for the red, white and blue card about three months before your birthday month. If you want to delay Part B because of employer coverage, follow the instructions on the back of the card before the deadline printed on it.
- Not on Social Security yet? Apply at ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at a Social Security office. You can apply for Medicare alone without starting retirement benefits.
- Have what Social Security asks for: your Social Security number, birth certificate or proof of citizenship or residency, and, if you are delaying from employer coverage, form CMS-L564 completed by the employer plus CMS-40B.
Step 2: decide how you want to fill the gaps
Original Medicare pays 80% of Part B costs with no yearly cap and does not cover drugs, so almost everyone adds one of two paths:
| Path | What you add | Who it tends to fit |
|---|---|---|
| Original Medicare + Medigap + Part D | A Medigap plan (G or N) and a stand-alone Part D plan | People who travel, want any doctor who accepts Medicare, and prefer predictable costs |
| Medicare Advantage | One private plan that usually includes drug coverage and extras | People who are comfortable with a network and want a low or $0 plan premium with a yearly maximum |
Step 3: enroll in the plan
Medigap and Part D applications go to the carrier; Medicare Advantage enrollments go through the plan or an agent during an enrollment period. We handle the paperwork, confirm your doctors and medications are covered, and track the effective date. Your premium is the same whether you use us or not.
Step 4: after you enroll
- Set up your Medicare.gov account and read your Medicare Summary Notices.
- Decide whether to deduct premiums from Social Security.
- Put October 15 to December 7 on the calendar: that is when we review your plan for the next year.
Source: Medicare.gov, sign up for Medicare.