If you are approaching 65 or recently turned 65, don’t panic. Figuring out Medicare can be overwhelming. Don’t miss your chance to sign up because you didn’t understand when to enroll.

When Do I Enroll in Medicare?

If you are a permanent resident of the United States or a U.S. citizen and have resided in the country for five or more years, then you qualify to receive Medicare when you turn 65.

Medicare can start on the first day of your birth month, and you can apply for it up to 90 days before your Medicare effective date. So if you turn 65 on September 23, you can apply for it as early as June 1 for your Medicare to begin on September 1.

However, if you happen to be born on the first of a month, then your Medicare benefits may begin the month prior to your birth month. So if you are born on May 1 and apply in advance, your benefits can start on April 1.

Because the process of enrollment may take some time, I strongly encourage people to begin the enrollment process as soon as possible. Take advantage of that three-month window. 

Do NOT wait until your birth month to apply for Medicare. 

Is There a Penalty for Not Signing Up at 65?

Contrary to popular belief, if someone does not enroll in Medicare at 65, they may not incur a late enrollment penalty.

In order to avoid the penalty, you need what the federal government deems as “credible coverage.” For example, if you’re on a great group health plan through your employer and choose to keep that plan, you won’t be penalized when you decide to switch to Medicare. 

If you do NOT have credible coverage, the late enrollment penalty is an extra cost of 10% of your part B premium for every 12 months that you did not enroll. That penalty stays with you for life.

It’s worth noting that healthcare through COBRA does not count as credible coverage. So if you lose your job right before turning 65, make sure you enroll in Medicare as soon as possible. 

Consider enrolling in Part A, regardless 

Even if you wish to initially stay on your employer’s group plan, you can still enroll in Medicare Part A, which covers inpatient hospital charges. This usually comes with a zero premium. Part A works in conjunction with your group health insurance, but it does not require you to sign up for Medicare Part B (if you have credible coverage as previously discussed). 

While you are not required to sign up for Part A, I always recommend it because it is free and provides useful extra coverage. 

The only exception is if you are someone who participates in a Health Savings Plan. You will be prohibited from applying for Part A until you leave your Health Savings Plan. 

What If I’m Already 65 or Older?

If you turned 65 more than 3 months ago and missed that initial window of eligibility, you’re in luck. The annual open enrollment period is happening right now as it does every year in January and February. Take advantage of this and apply now! 

If you apply in January, your coverage will begin Feb. 1. If you apply in February, coverage begins March 1. 

How Do I Enroll in Medicare?

While you can enroll in Medicare in person at the Social Security office, this can be a frustrating, difficult process, as it can be challenging to get an appointment. This is especially true during the annual open enrollment period.

The easiest and most efficient way to enroll in Medicare is by creating an online account at www.ssa.gov. 

We are happy to walk you through this process and advise you on what plans may be right for you in your specific situation. 

Your health matters, so let’s be sure to protect it. Call my office at 954-775-0275 to make an appointment today.