You can sign up through Social Security, Medicare.gov, or your local Social Security office — the route depends on whether you're already receiving benefits

Most people sign up for Medicare through Social Security, either online at ssa.gov or by phone at 1-800-772-1213. If you're already getting Social Security retirement or disability benefits, Medicare enrollment happens automatically three months before your 65th birthday — you don't have to do anything. If you're not yet receiving Social Security, you'll need to contact Social Security to sign up for both at the same time.

You can also sign up directly through Medicare.gov starting three months before the month you turn 65. This route works whether or not you receive Social Security. A third option is to visit your local Social Security office in person with your documents, though this takes longer than calling or using the website.

Key Takeaways

  • If you already receive Social Security retirement or disability benefits, Medicare enrollment happens automatically three months before your 65th birthday with no action needed on your part.
  • If you do not receive Social Security, you must contact Social Security or use Medicare.gov to sign up for Medicare before your 65th birthday.
  • You can sign up online at Medicare.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office.
  • The enrollment window opens three months before the month you turn 65 and closes three months after — missing this window can result in a permanent penalty on your premiums.

Signing up through Social Security if you're already receiving benefits

If you're already collecting Social Security retirement benefits, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), or Railroad Retirement benefits, you don't need to do anything. Medicare Part A and Part B enrollment happens automatically three months before your 65th birthday. You'll receive a Medicare card in the mail about two weeks before your coverage starts.

You should still review the information Social Security sends you to make sure your name, address, and other details are correct. If you want to decline Part B coverage (for example, because you have employer coverage), you must contact Social Security in writing before your coverage begins — otherwise you'll be enrolled and charged a premium.

Signing up through Social Security if you're not yet receiving benefits

If you're not receiving Social Security benefits, you'll need to contact Social Security to sign up for both Social Security and Medicare at the same time. You can do this online at ssa.gov starting four months before your 65th birthday, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office.

Have your birth certificate, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and proof of income (like tax returns) ready when you contact them. The process takes about two to four weeks. Once approved, you'll receive your Social Security card and Medicare card in separate mailings.

Signing up directly through Medicare.gov

You can also enroll in Medicare directly through Medicare.gov without going through Social Security. This option works whether or not you receive Social Security benefits. You can start the process online three months before the month you turn 65.

Go to Medicare.gov, select "Sign up for Medicare," and follow the steps to create an account. You'll need your Social Security number, birth date, and citizenship information. If you're not receiving Social Security, Medicare will ask you to provide income information to determine if you may have access to for any premium information programs. The online process typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, and you'll receive confirmation when ready.

Visiting a Social Security office in person

You can walk into your local Social Security office with your documents and sign up for Medicare in person. Find your nearest office at ssa.gov/locator or call 1-800-772-1213 to make an appointment. Bring your birth certificate, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and proof of income.

In-person visits take longer than online or phone enrollment — expect to spend one to two hours at the office, especially during busy times. This route is most useful if you have questions that require a face-to-face conversation or if you're uncomfortable using the phone or internet.

What happens if you miss the enrollment window

The enrollment window opens three months before the month you turn 65 and closes three months after. If you don't sign up during this seven-month window and you don't have other health coverage, you'll face a permanent penalty on your Part B premium — an increase of 10 percent for each year you were may be able to access but not enrolled.

There are exceptions: if you have employer coverage through your job or your spouse's job, you may be able to enroll later without penalty. If you missed the important date, contact Social Security or Medicare to discuss your situation. Some people can enroll during a Special Enrollment Period if they lost employer coverage or moved to a new state.

Documents you'll need

Whether you sign up online, by phone, or in person, have these documents ready: your birth certificate (or a certified copy), proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency (passport, naturalization papers, or permanent resident card), and proof of income from the past two years (tax returns, W-2 forms, or 1099 forms).

If you're signing up through Social Security and you're married, you may also need your spouse's Social Security number. If you've changed your name, bring a document showing the legal name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to sign up for Part B, or can I just take Part A?

Part A (hospital insurance) is automatic if you're receiving Social Security. Part B (medical insurance) is also automatic unless you decline it in writing before enrollment. If you have employer coverage, you can decline Part B to avoid paying the premium, but you must notify Social Security before your coverage begins.

What if I'm still working at 65 and have employer health insurance?

You can delay enrolling in Medicare Part B without penalty if you have employer coverage through your job or your spouse's job. When you leave that job or lose the coverage, you'll have eight months to enroll in Part B without a penalty. Notify Social Security or Medicare about your employer coverage so they have it on record.

Can someone else sign up for Medicare on my behalf?

A family member or representative can help you gather documents and make the phone call, but Social Security will need to speak with you directly to verify your identity and answer questions. If you're unable to communicate, you may be able to authorize a representative through a power of attorney.

How long does it take to get my Medicare card after I sign up?

You'll typically receive your Medicare card in the mail within two to four weeks of enrollment. If you enroll online at Medicare.gov, you can view your coverage information when ready in your account. Your coverage begins on the first day of the month you turn 65, even if your card hasn't arrived yet.

What if I need help understanding my Medicare options?

You can call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to speak with a Medicare representative who can answer questions about coverage options and help you understand what you're signing up for. This service is free and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.