New to Medicare?
If you're new to Medicare, understanding when to enroll is important and can help you avoid late enrollment penalties and prevent gaps in your coverage.
Initial Enrollment Period
The Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is the first time you can sign up for Medicare. It goes for 7 months; beginning 3 months before the month you turn 65 and lasting 3 months after your 65th birthday month.
For example, if your 65th birthday is in June, your Initial Enrollment Period begins March 1 and will end September 30.
How should I apply for Medicare?
The Social Security office handles the Medicare enrollment, and offers you several easy options for your enrollment.
- Online through Social Security
- Phone: Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY users 1-800-325-0778)
- In-person at your local Social Security Office
What happens after I apply?
Once Social Security receives your application, they will:
- Review your application and contact you if they need any additional information or documents
- Mail you a decision letter
- Mail you a Welcome to Medicare packet with your Medicare ID card
It usually takes about 3 weeks for your Medicare card to arrive in the mail. While you wait, we can help you learn about coverage options such as Medicare Supplements (Medigap), Medicare Advantage, and prescription drug plan (Part D).
3 Ways to Apply for Medicare
Online
In-person
Online
You can typically enroll in less than ten minutes through the online application.
Phone
In-person
Online
You can call Social Security and schedule an appointment for a phone interview.
In-person
In-person
In-person
Apply at your local Social Security office by walking in or calling and scheduling an appointment.
Medicare Supplements (Medigap)
Medicare supplement plans can help pay some of the out-of-pocket costs that are not covered by Medicare Parts A and B.
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Medicare Advantage is a type of Medicare plan that is available through private companies that are approved by Medicare.