When becoming eligible for Medicare, you have a 7 month Initial Enrollment Period (commonly referred to as IEP) that includes 3 months before you turn 65, the month of your birthday and three months after you turn 65. If you are already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits you will automatically be enrolled.  If you are not automatically enrolled due to either of those factors listed prior, feel free contact us and we can help you get enrolled through Medicare.gov.

As discussed above, if you are already receiving Social Security benefits or Railroad Retirement benefits, you will automatically be enrolled. If you are not, you will need to enroll in Part A and Part B yourself. I can certainly assist you with this by providing information about the Social Security office nearest to you, or if you prefer, can help you during a scheduled sit down meeting.

Coverage begins on the first day of the month of your birthday.

If you plan to continue working past the age of 65 or are covered under your spouse’s group health plan, check with the Benefits Administrator whether or not you are required to enroll in Medicare Part B.  If you are not required to immediately enroll, you can delay enrollment and sign up later without a penalty.

In many cases, if your spouse’s employer employs less than 20 people, you will be required to enroll in Medicare.