How to Sign Up for Medicare: Step-by-Step

When and where to sign up for Medicare

You can sign up for Medicare through Medicare.gov, by phone at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227), or in person at your local Social Security office. The timing matters: you have a seven-month window centered on your 65th birthday — three months before, the month you turn 65, and three months after. If you miss this window, you may pay a higher premium for as long as you have Medicare.

If you are already getting Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits before you turn 65, Medicare will enroll you automatically about three months before your 65th birthday. You will receive your Medicare card in the mail. If you are not yet receiving benefits, you must sign up yourself during your enrollment window.

Some people can sign up outside the standard window without penalty — for example, if you are still working and covered by your employer's health plan, or if you are a federal employee. This is called a Special Enrollment Period. You will need to show proof of your current coverage when you sign up.

Key Takeaways

You have seven months to sign up for Medicare: three months before your 65th birthday, the month you turn 65, and three months after.
If you already receive Social Security benefits, Medicare will enroll you automatically; otherwise, you must sign up yourself through Medicare.gov, by phone, or at a Social Security office.
Missing your enrollment window can result in a permanent premium increase, unless you may have access to for a Special Enrollment Period.
You will need your Social Security number, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and information about any current health coverage.

What documents you need to have ready

Before you start, gather your Social Security number, birth certificate or passport (to prove citizenship or legal residency), and information about any current health insurance — including your employer's plan, COBRA coverage, or Medicaid. If you are signing up online or by phone, you can have these documents nearby rather than mailing them in right away.

If you are still working and covered by your employer's health plan, you will also need your employer's name and the date your coverage began. This information helps Medicare determine whether you may have access to for a Special Enrollment Period and avoid a late-enrollment penalty.

Signing up online through Medicare.gov

Go to Medicare.gov/sign-up and select "Sign up for Medicare." You will create a login account or use an existing one. The online form asks for your personal information, Social Security number, citizenship status, and details about any current coverage.

The process typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. After you submit, you will see a confirmation page. Medicare will mail your official enrollment confirmation and your Medicare card within 30 days. You can check the status of your process anytime by logging back into your Medicare account.

If you run into trouble during the online process, you can save your progress and come back later — your information will be saved in your account. You do not have to complete it all at once.

Signing up by phone or in person

Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to speak with a representative. The line is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern time, and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Eastern time. A representative will walk you through the enrollment questions and can answer questions about your coverage options.

You can also visit your local Social Security office in person. Find your nearest office at ssa.gov/locator. Bring your Social Security number, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and information about any current health coverage. No appointment is required, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

What happens after you sign up

Medicare will send you a confirmation letter within 30 days, along with your Medicare card. Your coverage typically begins on the first day of the month in which you turn 65, or the first day of the month after you sign up if you are signing up late.

Before your coverage starts, review your confirmation letter to make sure all your information is correct — name, date of birth, and Social Security number. If you spot an error, call 1-800-MEDICARE right away to correct it.

You will also need to choose a prescription drug plan (Part D) and supplemental coverage (Medigap) or a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) if you want them. These choices have their own enrollment important date, usually within the same seven-month window. You can make these choices when you sign up for Medicare, or you can do it later during the annual enrollment period (October 15 to December 7 each year).

If you miss your enrollment window

If you do not sign up during your seven-month window and you do not may have access to for a Special Enrollment Period, you can still sign up during the annual enrollment period (October 15 to December 7). However, you will likely owe a late-enrollment penalty — an extra amount added to your monthly premium for as long as you have Medicare.

The penalty is calculated based on how many months you delayed signing up. For example, if you were supposed to sign up at 65 but did not sign up until age 68, you would owe a penalty for 36 months. The exact amount changes each year and depends on which part of Medicare you are enrolling in.

If you believe you may have access to for a Special Enrollment Period — because you were working and covered by an employer plan, or for another may have access to reason — contact Medicare to explain your situation. You may be able to avoid the penalty if you can show proof of your coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sign up for Medicare before I turn 65?

Yes, you can sign up starting three months before your 65th birthday. Your coverage will begin on the first day of the month you turn 65. Signing up early gives you time to review your coverage options and make sure everything is in order before your benefits start.

What if I am still working at 65?

You can still sign up for Medicare at 65, even if you are working and covered by your employer's health plan. If you have employer coverage, you may may have access to for a Special Enrollment Period that lets you sign up without a late-enrollment penalty. Keep your employer coverage active while you have it — it may coordinate with Medicare.

Do I have to choose a plan when I sign up?

You must enroll in Medicare Part A and Part B. Choosing a prescription drug plan (Part D) and supplemental coverage (Medigap or Medicare Advantage) is optional, but if you want them, you should choose during your enrollment window to avoid higher costs later. You can also make these choices during the annual enrollment period.

How long does it take to get my Medicare card?

Medicare will mail your card within 30 days of your enrollment confirmation. Your coverage begins on the first day of the month you turn 65 (or the first day of the month after you sign up if you are signing up late), even if your card has not arrived yet. You can use your confirmation letter as proof of coverage until your card arrives.

What if I need help signing up?

You can call 1-800-MEDICARE for free help, visit your local Social Security office, or use the online form at Medicare.gov. Some community organizations and senior centers also offer free in-person help with Medicare enrollment. Search "Medicare counseling" plus your city name to find local resources.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.