What are the timelines for the Medicare enrollment process?
Age 64 – Do Your Homework
- You can enroll up to 3 months before you turn 65.
- Understand your options if you plan to keep working after 65.
- Speak with Lori at Beck Insurance or go to Medicare.gov to learn more about Medicare.
Age 65 – Initial Enrollment Period
- Automatic enrollment if you are currently collecting or planning to collect social security.
- Otherwise, enroll between 3 months before to 3 months after turning 65.
Retirement – Special Enrollment Period
- Older than 65 but still working and covered by workplace insurance, you can enroll in Medicare up to 8 months after retirement.
Jan 1 – March 31 – General Enrollment Period
- You can enroll between January 1 and March 31 each year.
- Your coverage starts July 1 of that year.
- You may have to pay a higher premium plus penalties for late enrollment.
Choices
- Once you receive your Medicare ID card (2-4 weeks after applying), schedule an appointment with Lori Good at Beck Insurance. At that time you can then explore the options available to you for:
- Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C)
- Medicare Supplement
- Part D Prescription Drug Plans
TIPS: Different ways to enroll in Parts A and B of Medicare
- Online at ssa.gov
- Over the phone – call your local social security office.
- Visit your social security office in person.
