How & When to Enroll in Medicare: A Simple Guide from Lourie Life & Health
Published: August 13, 2025 | Last updated: October 23, 2026
In short: Most people should sign up for Medicare during their Initial Enrollment Period. That's a 7-month window that starts 3 months before the month you turn 65, includes your birthday month, and ends 3 months after. If you already get Social Security benefits, you'll be enrolled in Parts A and B automatically. If not, you sign up through Social Security online, by phone, or in person. Signing up early in the window helps your coverage start on time.
When Do You Need to Enroll in Medicare?
If you're turning 65, you’ll need to enroll in Medicare three months before your 65th birthday—unless you're already receiving Social Security benefits. In that case, you'll be automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B! But if you’re not on Social Security, you’ll need to enroll yourself, and our team can help you!
How Does Working Past 65 Affect Medicare Enrollment?
If you plan to keep working after 65 and have employer-provided health insurance, you might not need to enroll in Medicare right away. However, we want to review your specific situation. If you delay enrolling, you might face late enrollment penalties later, so it’s important to plan ahead.
What You’ll Need to Enroll
- When you’re ready to enroll, here’s what you’ll need:
- Your Social Security number
- Details about your existing health insurance plan (if applicable)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Enrolling in Medicare
- Start 3 Months Before Your 65th Birthday: It’s best to begin the enrollment process 3 months before you turn 65 to avoid any delays in coverage.
- Sign Up for Medicare Part A and/or Part B: You can sign up for Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) through the Social Security Administration. You can do this in one of three ways:By phone: Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778)
- Online: Visit www.socialsecurity.gov
- In person: Visit your local Social Security office
Can a Local Agent Help Me Enroll in Medicare?
Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or you’re ready to sign up, we’re here to provide the reliable guidance you need.
Call us today to schedule an appointment or if you have any questions! We’re happy to walk you through your enrollment options and ensure you get the coverage that fits your needs.
Head to our YouTube channel to watch the full YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=16z6GnDVPfA
Frequently Asked Questions
How early can I sign up for Medicare?
You can sign up as early as 3 months before the month you turn 65.Is Medicare enrollment automatic?
Only if you already receive Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits. Otherwise, you need to sign up yourself.
What happens if I miss my Initial Enrollment Period?
You may have to wait for the General Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31), and you could owe a late enrollment penalty for as long as you have Medicare. The exception is if you have qualifying employer coverage.
What do I need to enroll in Medicare?
Your Social Security number and information about any current health coverage, such as an employer plan.
Do I need to choose a Medicare plan when I enroll?
Signing up for Parts A and B is the first step. After that, you can choose how to get your coverage, such as adding a Medicare Supplement and Part D plan or choosing a Medicare Advantage plan. We'll help you compare.
Does it cost anything to get help enrolling?
No. Lourie Life & Health's service is at no cost to you.
Turning 65 soon? Our local South Carolina agents will walk you through every step, from signing up for Parts A and B to choosing the right plan. Call (803) 256-2067 (TTY 711) to schedule a time in one of our offices in Columbia, Greenville, or Myrtle Beach.
Want the full picture? Download our free Medicare Guidebook.