How to Enroll in Medicare, Step by Step
If you already receive Social Security, Parts A and B start automatically; your card arrives about three months before your 65th birthday. If not, apply at ssa.gov during your Initial Enrollment Period; it takes about 10 minutes. Then choose how to fill the gaps: a Medigap plan plus a Part D plan, or a Medicare Advantage plan. We help with that second step at no cost.
Step 1: Parts A and B through Social Security
- Already on Social Security or Railroad Retirement? You are enrolled automatically. Watch for the red, white and blue card about three months before your birthday month. If you want to delay Part B because of employer coverage, follow the instructions on the back of the card before the deadline printed on it.
- Not on Social Security yet? Apply at ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at a Social Security office. You can apply for Medicare alone without starting retirement benefits.
- Have what Social Security asks for: your Social Security number, birth certificate or proof of citizenship or residency, and, if you are delaying from employer coverage, form CMS-L564 completed by the employer plus CMS-40B.
Step 2: decide how you want to fill the gaps
Original Medicare pays 80% of Part B costs with no yearly cap and does not cover drugs, so almost everyone adds one of two paths:
| Path | What you add | Who it tends to fit |
|---|---|---|
| Original Medicare + Medigap + Part D | A Medigap plan (G or N) and a stand-alone Part D plan | People who travel, want any doctor who accepts Medicare, and prefer predictable costs |
| Medicare Advantage | One private plan that usually includes drug coverage and extras | People who are comfortable with a network and want a low or $0 plan premium with a yearly maximum |
Step 3: enroll in the plan
Medigap and Part D applications go to the carrier; Medicare Advantage enrollments go through the plan or an agent during an enrollment period. We handle the paperwork, confirm your doctors and medications are covered, and track the effective date. Your premium is the same whether you use us or not.
Step 4: after you enroll
- Set up your Medicare.gov account and read your Medicare Summary Notices.
- Decide whether to deduct premiums from Social Security.
- Put October 15 to December 7 on the calendar: that is when we review your plan for the next year.
Source: Medicare.gov, sign up for Medicare.
Medicare 101: the complete guide
Every topic a person new to Medicare needs, each on its own page, written and reviewed by Christian Brindle.
Questions people ask about How to Enroll in Medicare, Step by Step
How do I sign up for Medicare online?
At ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up during your Initial Enrollment Period. The application takes about 10 minutes and you can apply for Medicare only, without starting retirement benefits.
Is Medicare enrollment automatic?
Only if you already receive Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits. Everyone else must apply.
What documents do I need to enroll in Medicare?
Your Social Security number and proof of age and citizenship or lawful residency. If you delayed Part B because of employer coverage you also need forms CMS-40B and CMS-L564.
Do I enroll in Medigap or Part D through Social Security?
No. Social Security handles Parts A and B only. Medigap, Part D and Medicare Advantage plans are applied for through the carrier or an agent.
Does it cost more to enroll through an agent?
No. Premiums are set by the carrier and are the same with or without an agent. The agent is paid by the carrier.
Last updated: · Reviewed by Christian Brindle, CEO and Founder. Published by the Everything Senior Insurance Data Desk. Sources: Sign up for Medicare, Medicare.gov.