Medicare and You
When can I sign up for Medicare?
Most people sign up for both Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance) when they’re first eligible (usually when they turn 65). Generally, there are risks to signing up later, like a gap in your coverage or having to pay a penalty. However, in some cases, it might make sense to sign up later.
When does Medicare coverage start?
Medicare coverage starts when you sign up and which sign up period you are in.
When is my first time to sign up for Medicare?
Generally, when you turn 65. This is called your Initial Enrollment Period. It lasts for 7 months, starting 3 months before you turn 65, and ending 3 months after the month you turn 65.
FAQs
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Part B coverage is optional. If you or your spouse is still working and covered by your employer group health plan, you may not need this part of Medicare until you or your spouse retires. The standard Medicare Part B premium for 2025 is $185.
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You may defer Medicare Part B enrollment because you are still working. Contact the SSA at (800) 772-1213 to defer. This will ensure that you avoid a late enrollment penalty when you decide to retire and enroll in Medicare Part B upon retirement.
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Sign up for Medicare Part A & B or Medicare Part B by clicking this link
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If you lose your job-based health coverage before you or your spouse stop working, you have 8 months to sign up. If you want Medicare coverage to start when your job-based health insurance ends, you need to sign up for Part B the month before you or your spouse plan to retire.