Medicare 101 · 05

How to apply.

You can apply for Medicare three ways: online at SSA.gov/medicare, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at any Social Security office. If you're already receiving Social Security retirement or disability benefits when you turn 65, you're enrolled in Parts A and B automatically. If not, you must apply yourself during your Initial Enrollment Period — the 7-month window starting three months before your 65th birthday.

Are you already getting Social Security?

If yes: You'll be automatically enrolled in Parts A and B at age 65. Your card arrives 3 months before your birthday. You don't need to do anything—unless you want to opt out of Part B (rare; only makes sense if you have active employer coverage).



If no: You have to actively enroll yourself. There are 3 ways:

Option 1 — Online (fastest)

• Go to ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up
• Create or sign in to your "my Social Security" account
• Apply for Medicare Part A and/or Part B
• Takes ~10 minutes if you have your info ready

Option 2 — Phone

Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). Hours: Mon–Fri 8am–7pm.

Option 3 — In person

Schedule an appointment at your local Social Security office. Use the office locator at ssa.gov. Walk-ins accepted but expect a long wait.

What you'll need

• Your birth certificate (or U.S. passport)
• Your Social Security number
• Proof of legal residency if you're not a U.S. citizen
• Your most recent W-2 or self-employment tax return (proof of work history)
• If applicable: military discharge papers, marriage certificate

After you apply for Parts A & B

That covers Original Medicare only. To complete your coverage, you'll need to also decide on:

1. Drug coverage (Part D)—either standalone or built into a Medicare Advantage plan
2. Whether to add a Medigap plan (if you're keeping Original Medicare)—or—
3. Whether to switch to a Medicare Advantage plan instead

This is where most people benefit from talking to a broker. The Social Security application gets you A and B; the rest of the puzzle has dozens of plan options that vary by zip code. We'll walk through them with you at no cost.

How long does it take?

Online applications typically process in 2–4 weeks. Your red-white-and-blue Medicare card arrives by mail. Once you have it, you can complete the rest of your enrollment (drug, supplement, or Advantage).

Talk to a licensed agent—no cost, no pressure.

30-minute call. We'll review your situation, compare plans available in your area, and answer your questions. No obligation, ever.