Already receiving benefits?
Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits can affect enrollment.
Automatic enrollment
A birthday.
Not an assumption.
Some people are enrolled automatically. Others need to apply.
A little clarity. More room for life.At a glance
Start with these three things.
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.
01If 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.
02If 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.
03After 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
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