When Can I Enroll in Medicare?

Keep in mind there are limits when you can join/apply for Medicare.

• When you turn 65  you have a 7-month window to apply
  • This is anytime beginning three months before the month you turn 65 and ends three months after the month you turned 65.
  • For example, if you turn 65 on May 5, your eligibility period starts on February 1 and ends on August 31.
  • Enroll up to 3 months prior to your birthday month and Medicare will start on the 1st of your birthday month except when your birthday is on the 1st, then your Medicare will start the 1st of the prior month
  • DO NOT DELAY starting your Medicare as it takes time for them to process your application.
• If you are disabled and have collected a Social Security disablity check for 24 months you should automatically receive a Medicare card starting the 25th month
• If you are past 65, and not taken Medicare yet, and coming off an employer (or spouses) group health insurance plan you get an 8-month window to apply for Medicare. (See Tab "Do I Need to Apply for Medicaere if I am still Covered by my (or Spouses) Employer?"
• During the OEP (Open Enrollment Period) Jan 1 - March 31 (This is used ONLY if you miss one of the enrollment times listed above)

Have questions? Give us a call and let us help you with your Medicare Health insurance needs.

By contacting the phone number on this website you will be directed to a licensed local agent.

This information obtained from www.medicare.gov