Signing up for Medicare and choosing or changing a private plan are different steps. Put the relevant dates on one calendar before you make changes.
Approaching your 65th birthday
For most people, the initial sign-up window covers seven months: the three months before the month you turn 65, your birthday month, and the three months after. Some people are enrolled automatically; others must apply. Eligibility and effective dates can depend on your situation.
Still covered through work?
Do not assume that any health coverage allows you to delay Medicare safely. Check the employer-coverage rules before deciding when to sign up.
Separate your deadlines
- When do Part A and Part B need to start?
- When does your existing coverage end?
- What opportunity lets you enroll in a health or drug plan?
- When can you buy a Medicare Supplement with enrollment protections?
- How will you confirm the new coverage is effective?
Confirm before canceling
Use Social Security and Medicare to confirm your individual sign-up steps. Do not cancel current coverage based only on an application submission or an expected start date.