How to Sign Up for Medicare Part A & B — Step-by-Step Guide
Turning 65? This guide walks you through exactly how to enroll in Medicare and apply for Social Security benefits — so you avoid costly penalties and coverage gaps.
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Turning 65? Here's Exactly How to Enroll in Medicare
Enrolling in Medicare correctly is one of the most important financial decisions you'll make at 65. Miss a deadline and you could face lifetime premium penalties — and gaps in coverage that leave you exposed.
This guide walks you step-by-step through Medicare Part A and Part B enrollment, Social Security benefits, and what to do next — so you're protected from day one. And if you have questions, we're just a phone call away.
How to Sign Up for Medicare Part A & B
Know Your Enrollment Window
Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is a 7-month window centered on your 65th birthday:
3 months before
your 65th birthday month
Your birthday month
the month you turn 65
3 months after
your 65th birthday month
Important: Delaying Part B without creditable employer coverage results in a 10% lifetime penalty for every 12 months you were eligible but didn't enroll.
Gather Your Information
Before you apply, have these documents ready:
Choose How You Want to Enroll
Online (Recommended)
- 1Go to ssa.gov/medicare
- 2Click "Apply for Medicare Only"
- 3Create or log into your my Social Security account
- 4Complete the application
- 5Submit and wait for confirmation
By Phone
- 1Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213
- 2Request to enroll in Medicare Part A and Part B
- 3Schedule a phone appointment if needed
In Person
- 1Visit your local Social Security office
- 2Bring all required documents
- 3Complete application with a representative
Still Working at 65?
If you're still employed and covered by employer health insurance, you may be able to delay Part B without penalty. When you retire or lose that coverage, you'll get a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to sign up. You'll need these forms:
CMS-L564
Request for Employment Information — completed by your employer to confirm you had creditable coverage.
CMS-40B
Application for Enrollment in Medicare Part B — submitted to your local Social Security office.
Don't make this decision alone.
The rules around delaying Medicare are complex. Call us before you decide — we'll help you avoid penalties and make the right choice for your situation.
Call (361) 267-5977What Happens After You Enroll?
Medicare Supplement
Covers deductibles & co-pays alongside Original Medicare.
Medicare Advantage
All-in-one alternative to Original Medicare through a private insurer.
Part D Drug Plan
Covers prescription medications not included in Original Medicare.
Choose the Right Medicare Plan
Medicare alone doesn't cover everything — there are deductibles, co-pays, and coverage gaps. We help you compare all your options, check your doctors and prescriptions, and find a plan that fits your budget.
How to Apply for Social Security Benefits
Many clients don't realize they can apply for Social Security retirement benefits separately from Medicare — or that the timing of when you claim can significantly impact your monthly payment.
When Can You Apply?
Age 62
Earliest eligibility
You can start collecting at 62, but your benefit is permanently reduced by up to 30%.
Age 66–67
Full Retirement Age (FRA)
Receive 100% of your earned benefit. FRA depends on your birth year.
Age 70
Maximum benefit
Delay past FRA and earn 8% more per year — up to age 70. After 70, there's no additional increase.
How to Apply for Social Security
You can apply up to 4 months before you want your benefits to start. Here's how:
Online (Fastest)
- 1Go to ssa.gov/retire
- 2Create a my Social Security account
- 3Complete the retirement application
- 4Submit — takes about 15 minutes
By Phone
- 1Call 1-800-772-1213
- 2Available Mon–Fri 8am–7pm
- 3Schedule a phone appointment
- 4A representative will assist you
In Person
- 1Find your local SSA office at ssa.gov/locator
- 2Bring ID, SSN, and birth certificate
- 3Bring W-2s or tax returns
- 4Complete application with a rep
What You'll Need to Apply
Social Security + Medicare: How They Work Together
If you're already collecting Social Security when you turn 65, you'll be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B — your Medicare card will arrive in the mail about 3 months before your 65th birthday. If you're not yet collecting Social Security, you'll need to sign up for Medicare separately at ssa.gov/medicare.
Not Sure Where to Start?
We help hundreds of South Texas families navigate Medicare and Social Security every year. Let us walk you through your options — completely free, no pressure.
Get My Free Medicare Help
No cost. No obligation. Local expert guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Medicare enrollment and Social Security benefits.
Still have questions? We're happy to help — no cost, no obligation.