Turning 65 is a major milestone — and for millions of Americans each year, it also means it’s time to enroll in Medicare. But navigating the enrollment process can feel overwhelming if you don’t know what to expect.
The good news? You don’t have to go it alone. This simple, step-by-step checklist will help you understand what to do, when to do it, and how to avoid costly mistakes.
Step 1: Know Your Enrollment Window
Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) starts 3 months before the month you turn 65 and lasts for a total of 7 months:
- 3 months before your birthday month
- Your birthday month
- 3 months after
Example: If you turn 65 in August 2025, your IEP runs from May 1 to November 30, 2025.
Enroll early to ensure coverage starts on time — delays can mean late penalties or gaps in coverage.
Step 2: Decide If You Need to Enroll in Medicare Now
Ask yourself:
Are you already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits?
→ You’ll be automatically enrolled in Parts A and B, and will receive your Medicare card in the mail.
Are you still working and covered by an employer health plan?
→ You may be able to delay Part B without a penalty — especially if your employer has 20+ employees. Always check with your HR department. You can see details on medicare creditable coverage too.
Step 3: Enroll in Original Medicare (Parts A and B)
If you’re not auto-enrolled, you can sign up online at SSA.gov, over the phone, or in person.
- Part A covers hospital care — usually free if you paid Medicare taxes for 10+ years
- Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, and preventive services — you’ll pay a monthly premium ( $185/month in 2025, CMS changes it every year. CMS actuaries project future healthcare costs, taking inflation and other factors such as price changes for medical services and supplies, assumed increases in healthcare utilization into account. Higher-income beneficiaries pay an additional amount, known as IRMAA, on top of the standard premium. )
Even if you delay Part B, it’s a good idea to enroll in Part A if it’s premium-free.
Step 4: Choose How You’ll Receive Your Medicare Coverage
Once enrolled in Parts A and B, you have two main options:
Option 1: Stay with Original Medicare
- Add a Medigap (supplement) plan to cover most out-of-pocket costs not included in Original Medicare
- Add a Part D plan for prescription drugs
Option 2: Choose a Medicare Advantage (Part C) Plan
- Bundles A, B, and usually D
- May include dental, vision, and wellness perks
- Often lower or no premiums depending on your location, but with provider networks and out-of-pocket maximums
Tip: Compare local plans carefully — benefits and costs vary by zip code.
Step 5: Don’t Forget Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D)
If you choose Original Medicare without a drug plan, be sure to enroll in Part D.
- In Average Plans start around $10–$30/month in most areas
- Late enrollment penalties apply if you skip it and don’t have other drug coverage
Even if you don’t take medications now, enrolling avoids future penalties.
Step 6: Consider Extra Coverage Like Dental & Vision
Original Medicare and Supplement Medicare don’t cover:
- Routine dental care
- Vision exams and glasses
- Hearing aids
- Long-term care
These can be added via:
- Medicare Advantage plans with extra benefits (Long Term Care is only included with Dual Special Needs Plans for people who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid)
- Standalone supplemental insurance plans
Step 7: Watch Out for Common Enrollment Mistakes
- Missing your IEP deadline and facing late penalties
- Enrolling in Part B when you’re still covered by large-group insurance (or not when you should)
- Not comparing Medigap vs Medicare Advantage Plan options
- Forgetting about drug coverage (Part D)
A quick consultation with a licensed Medicare expert can save you from years of avoidable costs.
Final Thoughts: Plan Ahead and Get Peace of Mind
Turning 65 should be a time of celebration — not stress over healthcare decisions. With this checklist in hand, you can approach Medicare enrollment in 2025 with clarity and confidence.
Need help comparing plans or understanding your unique situation? Speak with a licensed Medicare advisor today — it’s free, personalized, and can save you thousands.
