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Reviewed July 31, 2026

Checklist after signing up for Medicare

Use this checklist to move from a submitted Medicare application to active, coordinated health and drug coverage.

Enrollment is only the first step

Confirm the effective dates, obtain the Medicare number, and make time-sensitive coverage decisions before assuming the process is complete.

Application and card

  • Save the Social Security submission confirmation and every request for additional evidence.
  • Read the approval or enrollment notice and verify the Part A and Part B start dates.
  • Check the welcome package and Medicare card. Print an official copy from the secure Medicare account if needed.
  • Correct a legal-name mismatch through Social Security.

Coverage choices

  • Compare Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage using official Medicare tools.
  • If choosing Original Medicare, decide whether to add a standalone Part D plan and whether a Medigap policy fits the situation.
  • If choosing Medicare Advantage, confirm that Part A and Part B are active and compare provider networks, drugs, prior authorization, costs, and service area.
  • Do not cancel employer, retiree, union, VA, TRICARE, Medicaid, or other coverage until the responsible program explains how it coordinates with Medicare.

Important timing

  • Record the deadline for joining a Medicare health or drug plan after Part A or Part B begins.
  • Avoid going 63 days or more without creditable drug coverage if you want to avoid a possible Part D late penalty.
  • If considering Medigap, check the federal six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period and any additional state protections.

Using the coverage

  • Create a secure Medicare account after receiving the Medicare number.
  • Choose providers and pharmacies that work with the selected coverage.
  • Carry the correct card: Medicare card for Original Medicare or the plan card for Medicare Advantage.
  • Review how premiums will be paid or deducted and watch for a CMS-500 bill when applicable.

Keep a decision file

Preserve the Medicare card, plan enrollment confirmations, notices of creditable drug coverage, employer-benefit records, premium notices, and notes from calls. Do not place a full Medicare number in ordinary email or unsecured notes.

Official sources

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