Start with your enrollment status
Some people are enrolled automatically. Others must apply through Social Security. Do not assume that Medicare Open Enrollment is the period for first signing up for Part A or Part B.
Who handles enrollment
The Social Security Administration processes most applications for Medicare Part A and Part B. The Railroad Retirement Board handles enrollment for many railroad workers and beneficiaries.
Main enrollment periods
- Initial Enrollment Period: usually a seven-month period beginning three months before the month you turn 65 and ending three months after that month.
- Special Enrollment Period: may apply when you delayed Part B because you or your spouse had group health coverage based on current employment.
- General Enrollment Period: January 1 through March 31 each year when another enrollment period does not apply. Coverage generally starts the month after enrollment, and a late penalty may apply.
Before you apply
Check whether you are already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits, whether you have active employer group coverage, and whether you need Part A, Part B, or both. COBRA and retiree coverage do not always protect you from Part B late-enrollment consequences.
Official starting points
Related resources
- Enroll in Medicare Parts A and B
- Do I need Part B if I am still working?
- Medicare enrollment checklist
- Review Medicare consequences before withdrawing a retirement claim
- Enroll in Part B during a Special Enrollment Period
- Replace a lost or damaged Medicare card
- Will I be automatically enrolled at 65?
- Checklist after signing up for Medicare
- Join a Medicare drug plan (Part D)
- Apply for help with Part D costs