Who This Is For
This page is for you if:
- You’re turning 65 and unsure how or when to enroll in Medicare
- You're still working but want to understand your options
- You’re planning to retire and lose employer coverage
- You delayed Medicare Part B and want to avoid penalties
- You’re helping a spouse, parent, or loved one transition to Medicare
What You Need to Know
✅ If You're Turning 65
- You have a 7-month Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
(3 months before, the month of your birthday, and 3 months after your 65th birthday) - You may be auto-enrolled in Medicare Part A and B if you're already receiving Social Security for 24 consecutive months.
- If not, you’ll need to apply for Part B manually through Social Security, and it takes time, so don’t wait to apply.
???? Tip: Apply for Medicare Part A and/or Part B as soon as your window opens—processing Medicare applications can take several weeks.
- You’ll need to decide between:
- Original Medicare (Parts A & B) + a Part D plan + optional Medigap
- OR a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan
???? Choosing the right path now can help you avoid surprise costs later.
✅ If You’re Retiring or Leaving Employer Coverage
- You may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to enroll in Medicare without penalties
- You typically have:
- 8 months to enroll in Part B after group coverage ends
- 2 months to enroll in a Part D or Medicare Advantage plan
- If you have a set retirement date, your employer healthcare usually ends at the same time
???? It’s critical to time your Medicare Part A and/or Part B application so your new coverage begins when your employer plan ends—don’t risk a coverage gap!
- COBRA is not considered creditable coverage for delaying Medicare Part B
- Coverage gaps or late enrollment penalties can be avoided with proper planning and enrollment timing
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