About 6 months before you turn 65
- Decide whether you will keep working and keep employer coverage.
- If you get Social Security benefits already, watch for your Medicare card in the mail — you may be enrolled automatically.
- Make a list of your doctors, hospitals, and prescriptions.
3 months before your birthday month
- Your Initial Enrollment Period opens. You can sign up for Parts A and B through Social Security (ssa.gov or by phone).
- Compare your options: Medicare Supplement + Part D, or Medicare Advantage.
- Talk with a licensed advisor if you’d like help — there’s no cost to you.
Your birthday month and after
- Enroll before your Initial Enrollment Period ends to avoid possible late penalties.
- Confirm your plan ID card arrives and that your pharmacy has your new information.
- Put October 15 – December 7 on your calendar each year to review your coverage.
This guide is general education, not advice about a specific plan. Rules and amounts can change each year.
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