Medicare Enrollment
How to enroll in Medicare A & B When You Turn 65
Enrolling in Medicare Part A & B
If you are not receiving Social Security income benefits before your 65th birthday, you’ll need to actively enroll in Medicare Parts A and B — enrollment is not automatic.
Steps to Apply Online
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- Go to https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up
- Scroll down to “Sign up for Medicare” and click “Apply online”
- Sign in or create a “my Social Security” account
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If you don’t have an account, follow the prompts to set one up.
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This account is secure and used to manage your benefits.
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- Complete the online application
- You’ll be guided step by step to enroll in Medicare A&B
- Directions – How to Enroll Online
- Submit your application
- There are no forms to sign and no documents to mail in most cases.
- You will receive a confirmation number once your application is submitted.
- Go to https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up
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After You Apply
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Save your confirmation number and submission receipts
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Regularly log in to mySSA.gov to track the status of your application
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If a Medicare Number is not processed in your account before your requested effective date, contact your local Social Security office to confirm they received your application.
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Additional Information
Need your Medicare number, but haven’t received your ID Card yet?
When your coverage starts:
The date your coverage starts depends on which month you sign up during your Initial Enrollment Period. Coverage always starts on the first of the month.
Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is:
- 3 months before your 65th birthday month
- the month of your 65th birthday
- 3 months following your 65th birthday
