How to Apply for Medicare

Step-by-step Medicare application help. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to get it right.

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Quick answer

Apply for Medicare online at SSA.gov, by phone at Social Security, or at a local office. If you already receive Social Security, you are enrolled in Parts A and B automatically at 65. Apply during your seven-month Initial Enrollment Period to avoid lifelong late penalties.

Applying for Medicare is straightforward once you know the steps and your deadline. Here is exactly how to do it.

How do I apply for Medicare?

If you already receive Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits, you are enrolled in Parts A and B automatically when you turn 65, with your card arriving by mail. If you are not yet drawing benefits, you must apply yourself. The fastest way is online at SSA.gov, which takes about 10 minutes. You can also call Social Security or visit a local office. Apply for Original Medicare first, then add a Part D, MEDIGAP, or Medicare Advantage plan through a private insurer. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for free help with the next step.

When should I apply to avoid penalties?

Apply during your Initial Enrollment Period, the seven-month window that starts three months before your 65th birthday month and ends three months after. Enrolling in the first three months means coverage starts the month you turn 65. Miss this window without other creditable coverage and you may face permanent late-enrollment penalties on Parts B and D, plus a gap in coverage. If you are still working, different rules apply. A licensed agent at 1-800-MEDIGAP can confirm your deadline and prevent costly mistakes.

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Frequently asked questions

Where do I apply for Medicare?+

You apply for Medicare through the Social Security Administration, online at SSA.gov, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. For Part D, MEDIGAP, or Medicare Advantage plans, you enroll separately through private insurers. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for free guidance.

Do I have to apply for Medicare or is it automatic?+

If you already receive Social Security benefits at 65, enrollment in Parts A and B is automatic. If you are not yet receiving benefits, you must apply yourself during your Initial Enrollment Period. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to confirm which applies to you.

How long does it take to get Medicare after applying?+

If you apply during the first three months of your Initial Enrollment Period, coverage begins the first day of your birthday month. Applying later in the window can delay your start date. Your Medicare card typically arrives within a few weeks. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for timing help.

Can I apply for just Part A and not Part B?+

Yes. Some people enroll in premium-free Part A at 65 but delay Part B because they have employer coverage. This avoids paying the Part B premium while still working. Be careful about the rules to avoid penalties; call 1-800-MEDIGAP to verify your situation.

Do I need help applying for Medicare?+

Applying for Original Medicare is simple, but choosing the right Part D, MEDIGAP, or Medicare Advantage plan is where mistakes get costly. A licensed agent at 1-800-MEDIGAP can guide you through both steps at no charge so you enroll correctly the first time.

Talk to a licensed specialist — free.

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📞 Call 1-800-MEDIGAP