Turning 65
How to Apply for Medicare (Part A & Part B)
A simple, step-by-step walkthrough of when to apply, how to apply, and what happens after — so you can enroll correctly the first time.
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When to Apply
You can apply during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) — a 7-month window that includes:
3 months before your 65th birthday
Your birth month
3 months after your birth month
💡 Tip: Apply during the 3 months before your birthday month. Coverage starts the first day of the month after you enroll — so applying early means no gap in coverage.
✓ Already collecting Social Security? If you’ve already been receiving Social Security (or Railroad Retirement Board) benefits for at least 4 months before your 65th birthday, you’re automatically enrolled in Part A and Part B in most cases — no application needed. Your red, white, and blue Medicare card will simply arrive in the mail, typically about 3 months before your birthday. If you’re not yet receiving those benefits by that point, you’ll need to apply yourself using the steps below.
How to Apply for Medicare (Part A & B)
✅ Option 1: Apply Online (Easiest)
- Visit ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up
- Select “Apply for Medicare Only”
- Log in or create a my Social Security account (via Login.gov or ID.me)
- Follow the prompts to enroll in Part A & Part B, or Part A only if you’re still working
- Submit your application — the process takes about 10 to 30 minutes and is available 24/7
- Your Medicare card arrives by mail once processed
✅ Option 2: Apply by Phone
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778), Monday through Friday, 8 AM–7 PM. Interpreter services are available upon request. You can also apply in person at your local Social Security office.
What You’ll Need
- Social Security number
- Date and place of birth
- Current health insurance details
- Employment information (if applicable)
What If I’m Still Working?
You can delay Part B if you have creditable employer coverage through a company with 20 or more employees. Still consider signing up for Part A, since it’s usually free — but be aware that enrolling in any part of Medicare stops HSA contributions if that applies to you.
Important: Delaying Part B without other creditable coverage can lead to a permanent late-enrollment penalty of 10% for each 12-month period you were eligible but didn’t enroll.
After You Apply
- Receive your Medicare card by mail with your coverage start dates. If you’re automatically enrolled through Social Security, your card typically arrives about 3 months before your birthday. If you apply yourself, it usually arrives within a few weeks of your application being processed.
- Part B premiums are deducted directly from your Social Security check if you’re already receiving benefits — otherwise, you’ll be billed quarterly (Medicare Easy Pay can automate this from a bank account).
This Is Where Most People Get Confused
“Signing up for Medicare” and “choosing a Medicare plan” are actually two completely different processes, done with two completely different organizations. Understanding this one distinction clears up almost all the confusion around Parts A, B, C, D, and plan letters like G and N.
Step 1 — One-Time
Enrolling in Medicare Itself
This is what the entire page above walks you through — a single enrollment through Social Security, the federal government. This gets you Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical), together called “Original Medicare.” You do this once.
You sign up with: Social Security (SSA.gov)
Step 2 — A Separate Decision
Choosing How to Fill the Gaps
Original Medicare has no yearly cap on what you could owe, and doesn’t include prescription drugs. To fill those gaps, you choose private insurance — either a Medicare Advantage plan, or a Supplement plan (like Plan G or Plan N) plus a separate Part D drug plan.
You sign up with: A private insurance company, through a licensed agent
Who Do I Actually Sign Up With?
| What | You Sign Up Through | How Often |
|---|---|---|
| Part A & Part B | Social Security (SSA.gov) | One time |
| Medicare Advantage (Part C) | Private insurer, via a licensed agent | Can change every fall (AEP) |
| Part D Drug Plan | Private insurer, via a licensed agent | Can change every fall (AEP) |
| Medigap (Supplement) — Plan G, Plan N, etc. | Private insurer, via a licensed agent | One time, ideally during your guaranteed-issue window |
The simple way to remember it: Social Security enrolls you IN Medicare. Everything after that — Advantage, Part D, and Supplement plans — is private insurance you choose, and that’s exactly the part NISONA helps you navigate for free.
What’s Next?
Once you’re enrolled in Part A and Part B, explore your additional coverage options to fill the gaps Original Medicare leaves behind:
Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C)
All-in-one plans bundling Part A, B, and usually Part D.
Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D)
Standalone drug coverage that pairs with Original Medicare.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plans
Covers most out-of-pocket costs left by Original Medicare.
Need help choosing? We’ll help you compare plans and make the best decision — free, with no obligation.
Common Questions
Do I apply for Medicare through Medicare.gov or SSA.gov?
Through SSA.gov. Social Security processes your Part A and Part B enrollment. Medicare.gov is where you manage benefits, compare plans, and enroll in Part D or Medicare Advantage after your Original Medicare is already in place.
Will I be automatically enrolled?
Only if you’re already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits at least 4 months before turning 65. Otherwise, you must apply yourself — don’t wait for a notice that may never come.
What if I miss my Initial Enrollment Period?
If you don’t qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, you’ll need to wait for the General Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31), and may face a permanent late-enrollment penalty.
Is there a cost to get help applying?
No. Our consultations are always free, with no obligation. We’re compensated by the insurance carrier when you enroll, at no additional cost to you.
Want to Explore More Medicare Topics?
Visit the Medicare hub for a full breakdown of Parts A, B, C, and D, Supplement plans, regional guidance, and everything else you need before and after you enroll.
Official Medicare Resources
⚠ Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a complete description of enrollment rules. Contact a licensed Medicare agent for guidance specific to your situation. NISONA is an independent insurance agency and is not affiliated with Medicare or the Social Security Administration.
Need Help or Have Questions?
No pressure. No obligation. We’ll walk you through your application and help you choose the right coverage after you enroll.
Nisona serves the insurance needs of the Treasure and Space Coast.