Need Help With Your Medicare Application?
How Do You Apply for Medicare Parts A and B?
You can apply for Medicare Parts A and B through the Social Security Administration, usually online, by phone, or through a Social Security office. Some people are enrolled automatically. Most people first become eligible around age 65, and your enrollment deadline depends on your current coverage, benefits, and circumstances.
Get Personalized Help From a Licensed Medicare Advisor
Not sure where to start? Brandon Vacius at Medicare Plan Assistance can help you understand your Medicare enrollment timeline, prepare for the application process, and review your coverage options after enrollment.
- Free Medicare Consultation
- Turning 65 & Medicare Enrollment Guidance
- No Obligation to Enroll
Get Help With Your Medicare Application
Answer a few quick questions so a licensed Medicare advisor can understand your situation and help you identify the next steps.
How to Apply for Medicare: Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for Medicare depends on your age, current health insurance, and whether you’re already receiving Social Security benefits.
Step 1: Check Whether You’re Automatically Enrolled
If you’re already receiving Social Security retirement benefits before age 65, you may be automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B.
If you’re not receiving Social Security benefits, you generally need to apply through the Social Security Administration.
Step 2: Determine When You Can Apply
Most people first become eligible for Medicare at age 65.
Your Initial Enrollment Period generally lasts seven months:
Three months before your 65th birthday month
The month you turn 65
Three months after your 65th birthday month
Certain individuals can qualify earlier because of a disability or qualifying medical condition.
Step 3: Submit Your Medicare Application
You can apply for Original Medicare through the Social Security Administration.
Visit SSA.gov to apply for Medicare.
Depending on your situation, you may also apply by telephone or with assistance from a Social Security office.
Step 4: Review Your Medicare Coverage Options
After arranging your Original Medicare enrollment, you can explore additional coverage, including:
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap)
Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage
Your ability to enroll in each option depends on the applicable eligibility and enrollment rules.
Step 5: Get Help Choosing Your Next Steps
If you’re unsure when to apply, whether to delay Medicare Part B, or which coverage options to compare, Medicare Plan Assistance can help you understand your choices.
Not sure where to start? Brandon Vacius at Medicare Plan Assistance can help you understand your Medicare enrollment timeline, prepare for the application process, and review your coverage options after enrollment.
- Free Medicare Consultation
- Turning 65 & Medicare Enrollment Guidance
- No Obligation to Enroll
Freqently Asked Question
How do I apply for Medicare for the first time?
You can generally apply for Medicare Parts A and B through the Social Security Administration online, by telephone, or through a Social Security office. Some individuals are enrolled automatically.
Can I apply for Medicare three months before turning 65?
Yes. Most people can begin applying three months before the month they turn 65. This is the start of their seven-month Initial Enrollment Period.
Do I need to apply for Medicare if I already receive Social Security?
If you’re receiving Social Security retirement benefits sufficiently before your 65th birthday, you’re generally enrolled automatically in Medicare Parts A and B. Special circumstances can affect enrollment.
Can I apply for Medicare while I'm still working?
Yes. However, whether you should enroll in or delay Part B depends on your employer coverage, employer size, and other circumstances. Review these factors before making a decision.
Does Medicare Plan Assistance submit official Medicare applications?
Medicare Plan Assistance provides independent guidance about Medicare enrollment and coverage options. Official Original Medicare Parts A and B applications are processed through Social Security or the appropriate government agency.
Related Links
Social Security — Sign Up for Medicare
Official Medicare Parts A and B application information.
Medicare.gov — When Can I Sign Up?
Eligibility dates, enrollment periods, and potential penalties.
Medicare.gov — Enrollment Forms
Official forms for people enrolling in Part B and other qualifying situations.