At a glance
Start with these three things.
Already receiving benefits?
Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits can affect enrollment.
Not receiving benefits?
You may need to apply for Medicare.
Extra coverage?
Drug plans and Supplements are separate decisions.
Your questions, unpacked
Automatic enrollment: your questions, answered.
If you already receive benefits
People receiving Social Security benefits at least four months before turning 65 generally get Parts A and B automatically when they turn 65. Different rules can apply outside the United States and in Puerto Rico.
Eligibility related to disability, ALS, or end-stage renal disease follows its own rules. Use Medicare’s official sign-up guide for your situation.
If you need to apply
If you are not enrolled automatically, you may need to sign up through Social Security. Review your enrollment period and current coverage before choosing when to start.
Working past 65 does not mean you should automatically enroll—or automatically delay. The type of job-based coverage matters.
After your Medicare card arrives
Check the effective dates for each part. Then consider whether you want additional coverage and how prescription coverage will fit.
Automatic enrollment into Original Medicare does not choose a Medicare Advantage, Medigap, or separate drug plan for you.
Sources & further reading
Related guidance