This page is strictly educational. SecureElder does not recommend, compare, or sell any Medicare plan and does not share information with insurers. For personal guidance, contact Medicare, Social Security, or Illinois' free Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP).
The initial enrollment period
The initial enrollment period is 7 months long: it starts 3 months before the month a person turns 65, includes the birthday month, and ends 3 months after it. People already receiving Social Security benefits are usually enrolled in Parts A and B automatically. Others sign up through Social Security.
What Part A and Part B are
- Part A (hospital insurance): inpatient hospital stays, limited skilled nursing facility care after a qualifying stay, hospice, and some home health care. Most people do not pay a premium for Part A.
- Part B (medical insurance): doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and some home health care. Part B has a monthly premium.
Still working with employer coverage
Someone who is still working, or covered through a working spouse, may be able to delay Part B without a penalty, depending on the size of the employer and how the coverage works with Medicare. When that employment or coverage ends, a special enrollment period generally allows signing up. Rules are specific, so confirm with the employer's benefits office and Social Security before delaying. Signing up late without qualifying coverage can mean a lasting late enrollment penalty.
Simple timeline checklist
- About 4 to 6 months before turning 65: Learn the basics of Parts A and B, and check whether current employer coverage continues.
- 3 months before the birthday month: The initial enrollment period begins. Check whether enrollment will be automatic through Social Security benefits.
- The birthday month: Coverage can start the first of this month if enrollment happened before it.
- Up to 3 months after the birthday month: The initial enrollment period ends. Enrolling late may delay coverage.
- When employer coverage ends: If Part B was delayed because of current employer coverage, ask Social Security about the special enrollment period.
Medicare does not cover long-term help with daily activities at home. Read what Medicare pays for at home to understand the gap.