Turning 65 is a milestone—and for most Americans, it’s also when you first become eligible to enroll in Medicare. The key is understanding when you need to act and how to complete enrollment so you can avoid gaps in coverage or potential late-enrollment penalties.
1) Know your enrollment window
Most people enroll during their Initial Enrollment Period (IEP), which generally runs from 3 months before your 65th birthday month through 3 months after.
If you’re approaching 65, it’s worth putting these dates on your calendar now.
2) Check whether you’ll be enrolled automatically
If you’re already claiming Social Security benefits when you turn 65, you’ll generally be automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B.
If you aren’t collecting Social Security yet, you’ll typically need to actively enroll in Medicare.
3) Enroll through Social Security (three common ways)
If you need to sign up yourself, the Social Security Administration (SSA) offers several options. Before you start, it can help to review the SSA’s Checklist for Online Medicare, Retirement and Spouses Applications so you know what information and documents you may need.
- Online: Use the SSA’s online application. You can usually save progress and return later.
- By phone: Call (800) 772-1213 (TTY: (800) 325-0778), Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–7 p.m.
- In person: Visit a local SSA office (use the SSA’s office locator to find the nearest location).
4) Special note if you’re still working at 65
If you (or your spouse) have employer coverage, deciding when to enroll—and which parts to enroll in—can be more nuanced. Coordinating Medicare with employer coverage is a common area where people benefit from asking questions ahead of time.
Want to know more? You’re invited.
Medicare can bring up a lot of questions—when to enroll, what if you’re still working at 65, and what to plan to spend. If you’d like a clearer walkthrough of the choices (and the common mistakes to avoid), we’d love for you to join us for a virtual client event with Mary Beth Franklin, a nationally recognized Medicare and Social Security expert.
Medicare: What to Know Before 65 and Beyond
Thursday, October 15, 2026
2:00 p.m. ET | Zoom
We’ll cover enrollment deadlines, coverage options, costs, and common mistakes to avoid. Whether you’re thinking ahead for yourself or helping a loved one approach 65, this conversation can help you feel more confident about the decisions involved.
Reserve your spot before October 10.
If you have questions about how Medicare and healthcare costs fit into your broader retirement plan, please reach out.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical or legal advice. Medicare rules are complex and may change; consult official resources or qualified professionals for guidance on your situation.