How Do I Get Medicare Once I Turn 65?

Are you approaching the exciting milestone of turning 65 and wondering how to sign up for Medicare? You're not alone. Many individuals have questions about the enrollment process, especially since it can be a significant change in how you manage your health insurance. At Mountaintop Insurance Solutions, located in beautiful Bend, Oregon, we’re here to help you understand the steps you need to take and answer any questions you have. Give us a call at (541) 641-8886 for more personalized assistance.

Understanding What Happens When You Turn 65

Turning 65 is a critical time to think about your health insurance and how Medicare fits into your life. Here's what you need to know:

When you turn 65, you become eligible for Medicare, which includes Part A and Part B.
Medicare Part A generally covers hospital insurance, while Part B covers medical insurance.
It's important to sign up for Part B unless you are still working and have employer coverage.

Failing to enroll in Part B when you are first eligible can lead to a penalty, so it's crucial to understand your options early on.

Answer a Few Questions to Determine Your Eligibility

If you’re unsure about your eligibility, answer a few questions to see if you qualify for Medicare:

Have you paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years?
Are you receiving benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board?
Do you have amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or Lou Gehrig's disease?

Answering these questions can help determine if you'll be automatically enrolled in Medicare or if you need to take additional steps.

Social Security and Medicare Enrollment

For most people, you’ll need to sign up for Medicare through the Social Security Administration:

If you’re already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits, you’ll be automatically enrolled in Parts A and B.
If you're not receiving those benefits, you'll need to sign up manually.

Visit the Social Security website or contact your local office for more details on how to get started.

Initial Enrollment: Months Before You Turn 65

Planning ahead is key when it comes to Medicare:

You have a 7-month initial enrollment period.
This period starts 3 months before the month you turn 65 and ends 3 months after.
Signing up early ensures your coverage will start the month you turn 65.

Missing this window might mean you’ll have to wait to sign up and incur a late enrollment penalty.

Receiving Your Medicare Card

Once you’re enrolled, you’ll receive your Medicare card:

If enrolled automatically, your card will arrive about 3 months before you turn 65.
If you signed up manually, expect to receive it shortly after your enrollment is processed.

Keep this card safe, as it’s your key to accessing Medicare benefits.

Still Working? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you or your spouse are still working, you might have other health insurance through an employer:

If your employer has 20 or more employees, you might not need to sign up for Part B immediately.
Check with your benefits administrator to find out how Medicare works with your current plan.

This can help avoid unnecessary premiums and penalties.

What If You’re Eligible for Medicare Due to Disability?

If you receive disability benefits, you might be eligible for Medicare earlier:

After receiving disability benefits for 24 months, you’re automatically enrolled in Medicare.
Those with ALS are eligible for automatic enrollment.

This ensures you get the coverage you need without delay.

How to Enroll in Medicare Advantage or Part D

Once enrolled in Original Medicare, consider additional coverage options:

Medicare Advantage Plans offer extra benefits like vision and dental.
Part D covers prescription drugs.

These plans can provide more comprehensive coverage based on your health needs.

Get Help Paying for Medicare

If you’re concerned about costs, there are resources to help:

Programs like Medicaid and Medicare Savings Programs assist with premiums and other costs.
Eligibility depends on your income and resources.