Turning 65: Your Medicare Guide
The year you turn 65 is a major milestone for Medicare. Here's everything you need to know about enrolling and choosing coverage.
Your Initial Enrollment Period
Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is a 7-month window that begins 3 months before the month you turn 65.
What You Need to Know
Your IEP starts the month before you turn 65 and ends 3 months after the month you turn 65. For example, if your birthday is in July, your IEP runs from April through October.
During this time, you can sign up for Medicare Part A and Part B without any late penalties. You can also enroll in a Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage plan.
Important: If you're still working and have employer health insurance through your employer (or your spouse's), you may want to delay Part B enrollment to avoid paying unnecessary premiums.
IEP Timeline
- 3 months before:Start planning your Medicare coverage
- Birthday month:Enroll in Part A and Part B
- 3 months after:Complete enrollment to avoid penalties
- Deadline:End of 7-month IEP window
Medicare Enrollment Timeline
Here's a month-by-month guide to help you stay on track.
3 Months Before
Start gathering your information. Review your current coverage, list your medications, and research Medicare options.
Birthday Month
Enroll in Medicare Part A and Part B. You can sign up online at Medicare.gov, by phone, or with our help.
3 Months After
Finalize your plan selection. Choose a Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage plan and enroll before your IEP ends.
Your Turning 65 Checklist
Use this checklist to make sure you don't miss any important steps.
Before You Turn 65
- ☐ Gather your Social Security card and Medicare card
- ☐ List all current prescription medications and dosages
- ☐ Note your preferred doctors and pharmacies
- ☐ Review your current health insurance coverage
- ☐ Research Medicare plan options in your area
During Your IEP (7-Month Window)
- ☐ Enroll in Medicare Part A and Part B
- ☐ Choose a Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage plan
- ☐ Enroll in a Part D prescription drug plan (if needed)
- ☐ Set up your Medicare account at Medicare.gov
- ☐ Schedule a consultation with a licensed agent
After Enrollment
- ☐ Confirm your coverage start date
- ☐ Review your plan documents
- ☐ Update your doctor if needed
- ☐ Schedule annual plan review for next year
Turning 65 FAQs
Common questions about Medicare enrollment at age 65.
You should sign up for Medicare during your Initial Enrollment Period to avoid late enrollment penalties. If you're still working and have employer health insurance, you may be able to delay Part B enrollment without penalty.
If you miss your IEP, you may have to pay a late enrollment penalty. Part B premiums increase by 10% for each full 6-month period you were eligible but didn't enroll. You can sign up during the General Enrollment Period (January 1 - March 31) each year.
This depends on your healthcare needs, budget, and preferred doctors. Medicare Advantage plans typically have lower premiums but may limit your provider choices. Medigap plans have higher premiums but offer more flexibility. We'll help you compare options during your free consultation.