Enrolling in Medicare

How do I sign up for Medicare?

If you already receive Social Security benefits, you're usually enrolled in Parts A and B automatically at 65. If not, you sign up yourself through Social Security — online at SSA.gov, by phone, or at a local office. Medicare Advantage and Part D plans are chosen separately once you have Parts A and B.

Reviewed by Scott Stafford, Licensed Insurance Agent

Last updated June 21, 2026

When it's automatic

If you're already collecting Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits when you turn 65, you'll be enrolled in Part A and Part B automatically, and your card arrives in the mail a few months before your birthday. People already receiving disability benefits are generally enrolled automatically after 24 months.

When you have to act

If you're not yet collecting Social Security — common if you're still working or delaying benefits — you need to sign up yourself during your Initial Enrollment Period. There are three ways: apply online at SSA.gov (the fastest), call Social Security, or visit a local Social Security office.

Then choose your coverage

Parts A and B are just the foundation. Once you have them, you decide how to round out your coverage: a Medicare Advantage plan (which bundles everything), or Original Medicare paired with a Part D drug plan and, optionally, a Medicare Supplement. A licensed agent can walk you through the options at no cost.

Common questions