Turning 65 and Medicare

Your turning-65 Medicare checklist. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP.

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Quick answer

When turning 65, sign up for Medicare during your seven-month Initial Enrollment Period, starting three months before your birthday month. If you receive Social Security, you are enrolled automatically. Decide between Original Medicare with MEDIGAP or Medicare Advantage, and add Part D for drugs.

Turning 65 brings one of the most important deadlines of your life. Here is a simple checklist to get Medicare right.

What should I do about Medicare when turning 65?

First, confirm your Initial Enrollment Period, the seven months around your 65th birthday. If you already get Social Security, you will be enrolled in Parts A and B automatically; otherwise, apply through Social Security. Next, decide your path: Original Medicare with a Part D plan and a Medicare Supplement (MEDIGAP) policy, or a Medicare Advantage plan. If you are still working with employer coverage, you may delay Part B. Getting this right at 65 sets up your costs for years. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for a free, no-pressure walkthrough.

Why is age 65 the best time to choose MEDIGAP?

Turning 65 unlocks your six-month MEDIGAP Open Enrollment Period, which begins when you are 65 and enrolled in Part B. During this one window, you have a guaranteed right to buy any Medicare Supplement plan regardless of your health, with no medical underwriting and no higher price for pre-existing conditions. Wait until later, and insurers can deny you or charge more in most states. This makes 65 a uniquely valuable moment to lock in coverage. A licensed agent at 1-800-MEDIGAP can help you use this window.

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Frequently asked questions

What do I need to do for Medicare at 65?+

Confirm your Initial Enrollment Period, enroll in Parts A and B (automatic if you get Social Security), then choose between Original Medicare with MEDIGAP and a Part D plan, or Medicare Advantage. Acting in your seven-month window avoids penalties. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for help.

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. If you do not receive those benefits, you must actively sign up during your Initial Enrollment Period. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to confirm which applies to you.

Should I take Medicare at 65 if I am still working?+

It depends on your employer's size. Many people take premium-free Part A but delay Part B while covered by a large employer plan, then enroll later penalty-free. Smaller employers may require Part B. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to verify the right move.

When should I start planning for Medicare before 65?+

Begin about three to six months before turning 65, since your Initial Enrollment Period opens three months before your birthday month. Early planning lets you compare plans and avoid rushed decisions. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to start your turning-65 review today.

Why is buying MEDIGAP at 65 important?+

At 65 you get a six-month MEDIGAP Open Enrollment Period with guaranteed acceptance, no health questions, and no higher cost for pre-existing conditions. Waiting can mean denial or higher prices later. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to use this one-time window wisely.

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