Congratulations on turning 65! As you celebrate, it’s time to get your Medicare ducks in a row. Enrolling on time helps you avoid late‑enrollment penalties, ensure continuous coverage, and enjoy peace of mind. Read on for your step‑by‑step roadmap.
1. Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): 7 Months to Act
- Starts: 3 months before the month you turn 65
- Includes: your birthday month
- Ends: 3 months after that month
- Key points:
- Sign up in the first three months and your Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical) coverage can begin the first day of your 65th birth month.
- If your birthday is on the first of the month, coverage starts that day; if it’s later, coverage generally begins on the first of the following month.
2. Enroll in Parts A & B
- Part A (hospital insurance): most people pay a $0 premium.
- Part B (medical insurance): standard monthly premium applies.
- You must sign up during your IEP to avoid late enrollment penalties and gaps in coverage.
3. Add Extra Layers of Protection
During your IEP you also have the option to:
- Join a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C): Combines Parts A & B and often adds vision, dental, and hearing benefits.
- Enroll in a Prescription Drug Plan (Part D): Helps cover your medication costs.
- Purchase a Medigap (Supplemental) Policy:
- Note: Medigap has its own 6‑month open‑enrollment window, which begins the month you’re both age 65 and enrolled in Part B.
- During this window, you can buy any Medigap plan you qualify for without medical underwriting.
4. Still Working? You Can Delay Part B
If you (or your spouse) have current employer health coverage through active work:
- You may postpone enrolling in Part B without penalty.
- You must sign up within 8 months after that employer coverage ends to keep penalty‐free status.
5. Calendar Reminders to Set
- 3 Months Before Turning 65:
- Research and compare Parts A, B, C, and D plans.
- Month You Turn 65:
- Enroll in Parts A & B (and add Part C or D if desired).
- Your Medigap open enrollment window also begins.
- Next 5 Months (after your birth month):
- Final chance to purchase a Medigap policy without underwriting.
- 3 Months After Turning 65:
- Last opportunity to enroll in Parts A & B under your IEP.
Final Tip: Start Now—Don’t Delay!
Medicare’s many parts and windows can feel overwhelming, but a little planning goes a long way.
- Set calendar alerts for your IEP and Medigap window.
- Compare plan details side by side (premiums, benefits, provider networks).
- Talk to your HR department if you still have workplace coverage.
Get enrolled on time, avoid penalties, skip coverage gaps, and focus on enjoying your retirement!