Benefits
How to apply for Medicare
Medicare is the federal health insurance program for Americans 65 and older and certain younger people with disabilities. Most people are auto-enrolled if they're already receiving Social Security — but if not, you must actively sign up to avoid lifetime premium penalties.
Last reviewed: June 5, 2026
Steps
Understand the parts of Medicare
Medicare has four parts with different coverage and costs.
- Part A: Hospital insurance — covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing, and hospice. Free for most people who paid Medicare taxes for 10+ years.
- Part B: Medical insurance — covers doctor visits, outpatient care, and preventive services. Monthly premium required.
- Part C (Medicare Advantage): Private insurance alternative that bundles Parts A and B, often with extras.
- Part D: Prescription drug coverage. Offered through private insurers.
Determine if you're automatically enrolled
If you are already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits when you turn 65, you are automatically enrolled in Parts A and B. You'll receive your Medicare card in the mail 3 months before your 65th birthday. If you're not yet receiving Social Security, you must enroll yourself.
Sign up during your Initial Enrollment Period
Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is a 7-month window: 3 months before the month you turn 65, the month of your birthday, and 3 months after. Enrolling during the first 3 months means coverage starts the month you turn 65. Enrolling later delays coverage and may trigger late enrollment penalties.
Tip: If you have employer health insurance through your current employer (or a spouse's employer), you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period and can delay Part B without penalty until that coverage ends.
Apply online, by phone, or in person
Apply at ssa.gov/medicare, by calling 1-800-772-1213, or at your local Social Security office. You can apply up to 3 months before you want coverage to begin.
Consider adding Part D (prescription drug coverage)
If you don't have prescription coverage from another source, enroll in a Part D plan during your Initial Enrollment Period. Delaying Part D when you don't have other creditable coverage results in a permanent premium penalty.
Review supplemental coverage options (Medigap or Medicare Advantage)
Original Medicare has deductibles and co-pays with no out-of-pocket maximum. Many people buy a Medigap supplemental policy or switch to a Medicare Advantage plan to cap their costs. Compare options at medicare.gov.