New to Medicare

If you are 64 and going onto Medicare for the first time. To ease your mind, lets get your to-do list clear.

Medicare eligibility starts on the 1st day of the month you turn 65.

The 1st of the previous month if your birthday is on the 1st

Example 1:

You turn 65 on October 15, 2025

Soonest start date: October 1, 2025

Example 2:

You turned 65 on October 1, 2025
Soonest start date: September 1, 2025

Source Medicare.gov

First, get the answers to these 5 Questions about the Government part of Medicare

Answers

1. When is the soonest date my Medicare can start?

2. When is the first and last day I can apply?

If you’re already receiving Social Security income, you will be automatically enrolled in Medicare.

If you’re not receiving Social Security income, you’ll need to enroll during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) — a 7-month window that includes:

3 months before your birthday month
Your birthday month
3 months after your birthday month

Example:

If your birthday is October 15, your IEP is from July 1st to January 31st.

Source Medicare.gov

3. What are the three ways I can apply for Medicare?

1. Online at SSA.GOV

This is the fastest and easiest way. It takes about 20 minutes.

Click here to see a video of Bill Warner walking you through the SSA.GOV website

2. Over the phone, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213

3. In Person at your local Social Security office. You will

need to call the office to schedule an appointment.

To find your local office, go to this website.

https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp

If you're turning 65 and have employer coverage from a company with 20+ employees that costs less than $300/month, you might consider enrolling in Medicare Part A only — since it’s free for most people.

If you or your spouse paid into Medicare for 10+ years, Part A is premium-free. It covers inpatient hospital care, paying nearly all costs for the first 60 days after you meet a $1,676 deductible (2025 rate). That means your hospital bill likely won’t exceed $1,676 for a covered stay.

Why Delay Medicare Part B?

Why You Might Delay Medicare Part B

Medicare Part B covers outpatient services, like doctor visits, lab work, x-rays, preventive care, and outpatient surgeries. However, it comes with a monthly premium — typically $185 /month in 2025 (more if your income is above a certain level).

If you’re still working and already covered by a qualified employer group health plan:

Your employer insurance may already cover everything Part B would.
Enrolling in Part B could mean paying for benefits you don’t need right now.
You can delay Part B without penalty as long as your employer coverage is considered creditable (i.e., as good as Medicare).

By waiting to enroll in Part B until after you retire or lose employer coverage, you:

Avoid unnecessary monthly premiums
Maintain your right to a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) later
Can sign up for Part B without a late enrollment penalty

4. Do I want to enroll in Medicare Part A only?

5. Do I want to enroll in Medicare Part A and B?

Enroll in BOTH Part A and B if:

You do not have health insurance through a job or spouse
Your employer coverage is from a company with fewer than 20 employees
You want full Medicare coverage as your primary insurance
You plan to enroll in a Medicare Advantage or Supplement plan (you need both A and B to qualify)

Now that you’ve answered those questions, watch the video below to learn about the two basic paths to Medicare coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions for New Medicare Beneficiaries

At what age does Medicare begin?

Medicare eligibility starts at age 65, regardless of whether you’re receiving Social Security benefits. Some individuals may qualify earlier due to a disability or certain medical conditions.

How do I enroll in Medicare?

Enrolling is simple! The Social Security Administration offers a quick online application that takes less than ten minutes to complete. You don’t need to be collecting Social Security income to apply—just visit the Social Security website and follow the Medicare enrollment instructions.

Is Medicare enrollment mandatory at age 65?

No, but delaying enrollment without having other creditable medical coverage (such as from a large employer) can result in costly penalties. It’s important to understand your options before postponing enrollment.

When should I sign up for Medicare?

For most people, the best time to enroll is during the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)—a 7-month window that begins three months before your 65th birthday, includes your birth month, and extends three months after. Enrolling during this period helps you avoid late penalties and ensures seamless coverage.

How to get a new Medicare card?

You can print a copy of your Medicare card by logging into your Medicare account. If your card is lost or stolen, or if you need a new Medicare number or a name change, you can request a replacement through your SSA account.

How much does Medicare cost?

Medicare Part A can be $0/month for most people, but Part B has a base premium of $185 in 2025.

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

If you were receiving Social Security benefits before becoming eligible for Medicare, you might be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B.
To avoid late enrollment penalties, most people should enroll in Medicare during their 7-month Initial Enrollment Period.
Planning ahead for your Medicare enrollment ensures a smooth transition. Most people become eligible around age 65, so take the time to research your options in advance.

Medicare Guidance You Can Trust

Are you still feeling overwhelmed by Medicare? You don’t have to navigate it alone. At Kirk Warner Insurance Agency, our knowledgeable, no-pressure agents are here to guide you step by step.

We start by helping you understand the basics of Original Medicare, so you can confidently choose the right supplemental coverage for your needs.

Once your policy is in place, you’ll have peace of mind knowing we’re just a phone call away whenever you need assistance.

Best of all, our expert guidance is completely FREE! Experience the difference of having Kirk Warner Insurance Agency on your side.

CALL NOW

626-963-3244

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