Some people are automatically enrolled in Medicare and some need to apply.
You have to sign up if you are age 65 and not getting Social Security.
https://www.medicare.gov/sign-up-change-plans/get-started-with-medicare
This page includes the most basic Medicare information about getting started with Medicare and includes a link to apply for Medicare (you apply on Social Security site)
When you first get Medicare, apply prior to reaching 65
https://www.medicare.gov/sign-up-change-plans/how-do-i-get-parts-a-b/part-a-part-b-sign-up-periods
- Enrollment Period begins 3 months before the month you turn 65
- Includes the month you turn 65
- Enrollment Period ends 3 months after the month you turn 65
Consequences of not signing up on time
https://www.medicare.gov/your-medicare-costs/part-b-costs/part-b-late-enrollment-penalty
If you didn’t get Part B when you’re first eligible, your monthly premium may go up 10% for each 12-month period you could’ve had Part B, but didn’t sign up. In most cases, you’ll have to pay this penalty each time you pay your premiums, for as long as you have Part B. And, the penalty increases the longer you go without Part B coverage.
Determining whether you should enroll at age 65
https://www.medicare.gov/sign-up-change-plans/how-do-i-get-parts-a-b/should-i-get-parts-a-b
Working at some, not all employers can be a reason to postpone enrolling in Medicare at age 65. This page includes a list of special situations that you can use to evaluate whether you should apply at prior to age 65 or not including “I’m currently working with coverage from my employer”, “I’m covered by my spouse, who is currently working”, “I have COBRA insurance from a previous employer”,” I have retiree coverage from a previous employer” and many more.
How to get help: State Health Insurance Plans
https://www.shiptacenter.org/
Local Medicare help, unbiased one-on-one counseling and assistance provided for each state.
State HIPs offer local, personalized counseling and assistance to people with Medicare and their families. SHIPs can help you with things like:
- Your Medicare questions, including your benefits, coverage, premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance
- Complaints and appeals
- Joining or leaving a Medicare Advantage Plan (like an HMO or PPO), any other Medicare health plan, or Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D)
MEDICARE PART A AND B ARE REQUIRED – BUT THERE IS MORE TO CONSIDER
Once you enroll in Medicare parts A and B you can go to the next step and consider the next questions:
Will you buy a drug plan and a supplemental plan if you choose standard Medicare? Or will you consider an Advantage plan? When should you sign up for these options and are there penalties for not signing up on time?
For more information about Medicare: https://www.medicare.gov/