How to Sign Up for Medicare Parts A and B, Step by Step

Here's something that surprises a lot of people: you don't sign up for Medicare through Medicare. You sign up through Social Security.

And some folks don't have to sign up at all. If you're already getting Social Security benefits, you'll usually be enrolled automatically.

Let's figure out which group you're in, then walk through the steps.

The mental model: Social Security is the front door

Think of Social Security as the front door to Medicare.

Parts A and B go through that door. Once you're inside with your Medicare card, then you pick the rest: a supplement, a Medicare Advantage plan, a drug plan. Those come from private companies, not Social Security.

So it's two steps. Front door first. Then pick your rooms.

The analogy: getting your driver's license before buying a car

You can't drive a car off the lot until you have a license. And the dealership doesn't give you the license. The state does.

Medicare is the same. Social Security gives you the license: Parts A and B. Then you shop for the car: how you want the rest of your coverage set up.

Step 1: Find out if you're automatic

You're usually enrolled automatically if you've been getting Social Security benefits for at least 4 months before you turn 65. Medicare says you'll get a welcome package with your Medicare card 3 months before your coverage starts.

If that's you, you mostly need to watch the mailbox. Part B has a monthly premium, and you can turn it down. But think hard before you do. If you're still working, read my piece on working past 65 first.

You need to sign up yourself if you're not getting Social Security benefits yet. That's common if you're holding off on claiming Social Security.

Step 2: Know your window

Your Initial Enrollment Period is 7 months:

• The 3 months before the month you turn 65
• Your birthday month
• The 3 months after

When your coverage starts depends on when you sign up:

| If you sign up | Part B starts | | --- | --- | | Before your birthday month | The month you turn 65 | | In your birthday month or the 3 months after | The next month |

If you qualify for premium-free Part A, it starts the month you turn 65. One quirk: if your birthday falls on the first of the month, your coverage starts the month before.

My advice? Sign up in the 3 months before your birthday month. That way your coverage starts right on time, with no gap.

Step 3: Pick how you'll sign up

You have three ways to apply through Social Security.

1. Online. Medicare calls this the easiest and fastest way. You'll create a my Social Security account, then apply. If you're 65 or older, you can enroll online for Parts A and B, or Part A only. You can also apply for Medicare only, without starting your retirement checks.

2. By phone. Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213. They're generally available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

3. In person. Visit your local Social Security office. It's smart to call first and set up an appointment.

Step 4: Have this ready

When you apply, expect questions like:

• Your name, Social Security number, date of birth
• Whether you or your spouse have group health coverage from a current job, and the employer's details
• Bank info if you're also applying for benefits

Social Security may ask for documents, like proof of age. If they do, they'll tell you what to send.

Step 5: Only adding Part B later?

If you took Part A and delayed Part B because you had coverage from a current job, you'll sign up for Part B separately. That's usually Form CMS-40B, plus proof of your job coverage. Social Security lets you do this online too.

Step 6: Pick the rest of your coverage

Once you have your Medicare card, it's time to decide how you want the rest set up.

• A Medicare Supplement plus a Part D plan, or
• A Medicare Advantage plan

Timing tip: Your 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period starts the first month you have Part B and you're 65 or older. That's your best time to buy a supplement. It doesn't repeat.

Want to see what's offered where you live? Start with the ZIP code plan checker.

Things I'd do (and never do)

1. I'd sign up 2 to 3 months before my birthday month. Coverage starts on time.
2. I'd use the online application if I'm comfortable on a computer. It's fast.
3. I'd keep a screenshot or copy of my confirmation.
4. I'd never assume I'm automatic if I'm not getting Social Security checks yet.
5. I'd never miss my 7-month window. Signing up late can mean waiting for coverage and paying a Part B penalty.

Want help with the sign-up?

We can sit with you while you apply online, answer questions, and then help you pick the rest of your coverage.

Call (417) 633-7200, or stop by our Springfield office at 3616 S Campbell Ave. We also have offices in Joplin, Cape Girardeau, Wildwood, Belton, and Topeka.

License first. Then let's go shopping.

— Matt

Frequently asked questions

How do I sign up for Medicare?

Through Social Security. You can apply online, call 1-800-772-1213, or visit a local Social Security office. If you already get Social Security benefits, you're usually enrolled automatically.

Can I sign up for Medicare without taking Social Security?

Yes. You can apply for Medicare only and delay your retirement benefits. Social Security's online application lets you choose this.

When should I sign up for Medicare?

During your 7-month Initial Enrollment Period around your 65th birthday. Signing up before your birthday month means Part B starts the month you turn 65.

How long does it take to get my Medicare card?

If you're enrolled automatically, Medicare says your welcome package with your card arrives 3 months before your coverage starts. If you apply yourself, sign up early so your card arrives before your start date.

Do I sign up for a Medicare Supplement or Advantage plan through Social Security?

No. Social Security handles Parts A and B. Supplements, Medicare Advantage, and Part D plans are offered by private companies. We can help you compare those.