When to Sign Up for Medicare

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Quick answer

Sign up for Medicare during your seven-month Initial Enrollment Period, which begins three months before the month you turn 65 and ends three months after. Enrolling in the first three months gives coverage on your birthday month. If you have employer coverage, you may delay penalty-free.

Timing your Medicare sign-up correctly avoids penalties and coverage gaps. Here is when to act.

When is my Initial Enrollment Period?

Your Initial Enrollment Period is a seven-month window centered on your 65th birthday: it starts three months before your birthday month, includes that month, and runs three months after. If you sign up in the first three months, coverage starts the first day of your birthday month. Sign up later, and coverage may be delayed. This is the simplest, penalty-free time to enroll for most people. Missing it can be costly. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to pinpoint your exact dates and avoid mistakes.

When can I delay Medicare without penalty?

If you or your spouse are still working and have group health coverage from an employer with 20 or more employees, you can usually delay Part B (and Part D) without penalty. When that employment or coverage ends, an eight-month Special Enrollment Period lets you sign up for Part B without a late fee. However, COBRA and retiree coverage do not count as active employer coverage for this purpose, a common and costly trap. Verify your situation before delaying by calling 1-800-MEDIGAP for free guidance.

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Frequently asked questions

When should I sign up for Medicare?+

Sign up during your Initial Enrollment Period, the seven months from three months before your 65th birthday month to three months after. If you have active employer coverage, you may delay Part B and use a Special Enrollment Period later. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to confirm.

What happens if I sign up late for Medicare?+

Without other creditable coverage, signing up late triggers permanent penalties: Part B adds 10% for each 12-month delay, and Part D adds a smaller lifelong surcharge. You may also face a coverage gap. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to avoid these penalties.

Can I sign up for Medicare after 65?+

Yes. If you have qualifying employer coverage, you can enroll later through a Special Enrollment Period without penalty. Without such coverage, you may have to wait for the General Enrollment Period (January to March) and face penalties. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for help.

Should I sign up for Medicare if I am still working?+

It depends on your employer's size and coverage. Many people enroll in premium-free Part A but delay Part B while covered by a large employer plan. Smaller employers may require you to take Part B. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to verify what you should do.

When should I get a MEDIGAP plan?+

The best time to buy a Medicare Supplement (MEDIGAP) plan is during your six-month MEDIGAP Open Enrollment Period, which starts when you are 65 and enrolled in Part B. During this window you cannot be denied or charged more for health reasons. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP.

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