Turning 65? Here's exactly what to do
Your 65th birthday starts the clock on some important Medicare deadlines. Here's a simple, step-by-step path, and a free expert to walk it with you.
The 60-second version
When you turn 65 you get a 7-month Initial Enrollment Period. 3 months before your birthday month, the month itself, and 3 months after. During that window you enroll in Medicare and choose how to complete your coverage. Miss it without other qualifying insurance and you could face a lifelong penalty. The good news: we make the whole thing simple, and our help is free.
Your road to Medicare at 65
Mark your enrollment window
Your Initial Enrollment Period begins 3 months before the month you turn 65. Starting early means no rushing and no penalty.
Enroll in Parts A & B
If you already get Social Security, this may happen automatically. If not, you enroll through Social Security, we'll show you how.
Choose your coverage path
Decide between a Medicare Advantage plan or Original Medicare with a Supplement and a Part D drug plan. We compare both for you.
Lock it in, and relax
We confirm your doctors and medications are covered, handle the paperwork, and review your plan with you every year.
Three traps we help you sidestep
Late-enrollment penalties
Miss your window without qualifying coverage and penalties can follow you for life. We keep you on schedule.
Wrong-network surprises
Picking a plan only to find your doctor isn't covered. We verify your providers before you enroll.
Overpaying for drugs
The wrong Part D plan can cost hundreds extra a year. We price your exact medications to find the lowest cost.
Turning-65 questions, answered
A few of the things people ask us most as they approach 65.
What do I need to do when I turn 65?
You enter your 7-month Initial Enrollment Period. If you already receive Social Security you may be enrolled in Parts A & B automatically; otherwise you enroll through Social Security, then choose a Medicare Advantage plan or a Supplement plus Part D. We guide every step.
What if I'm still working at 65?
If you have qualifying coverage through your or your spouse's current employer, you may be able to delay Part B without penalty and enroll later during a Special Enrollment Period. We'll confirm whether your coverage qualifies.
What happens if I miss my window?
Without other qualifying coverage, missing your Initial Enrollment Period can mean a late-enrollment penalty added to your premium for as long as you have Medicare. Planning ahead avoids it.
Turning 65 soon? Let's make it simple.
Get a free, personalized walkthrough of your Medicare options, on your timeline, with zero pressure.