Do I Automatically Get Medicare at 65?

Automatic or not? Find out so you do not miss enrollment. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP.

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Quick answer

You automatically get Medicare Parts A and B at 65 only if you already receive Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits; your card arrives by mail. If you are not yet drawing those benefits, you must actively sign up during your seven-month Initial Enrollment Period to avoid penalties.

Many people assume Medicare just starts at 65. For some it does, for others it does not. Here is how to know.

Who gets Medicare automatically at 65?

You are enrolled automatically in Parts A and B if you are already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits when you turn 65. Your red, white, and blue Medicare card simply arrives in the mail about three months before your birthday, with coverage starting your birthday month. People under 65 who have received disability benefits for 24 months are also enrolled automatically. If this is you, your main job is deciding on Part D and supplemental coverage. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to choose the right add-on plans.

Who has to sign up manually?

If you are not yet collecting Social Security, common for people delaying benefits to increase their checks, you are not enrolled automatically and must sign up yourself. You apply through Social Security online, by phone, or in person during your seven-month Initial Enrollment Period. Failing to act can cause permanent late penalties and a coverage gap. Because more people now delay Social Security past 65, this manual step catches many off guard. A licensed agent at 1-800-MEDIGAP can confirm whether you must enroll yourself and help you do it on time.

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Frequently asked questions

Do I automatically get Medicare when I turn 65?+

Only if you already receive Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits. Then Parts A and B start automatically and your card arrives by mail. If you have not started those benefits, you must sign up yourself during your Initial Enrollment Period. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP.

Will I get a Medicare card in the mail automatically?+

You will receive a Medicare card automatically only if you are already drawing Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits at 65. Otherwise, you must apply, and the card arrives after you enroll. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP if you are unsure whether to expect one.

What if I delayed Social Security past 65?+

If you delayed Social Security, you are not enrolled in Medicare automatically and must sign up yourself during your Initial Enrollment Period to avoid penalties. This catches many people off guard. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to make sure you enroll on time.

Do I automatically get Part D at 65?+

No. Part D prescription drug coverage is never automatic; you must actively choose and enroll in a private Part D plan. Delaying without other creditable drug coverage causes a permanent late penalty. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to pick a Part D plan and avoid penalties.

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