Your Medicare starting point
Turning 65
Know what to do, when to do it, and which decisions deserve the most attention.
Your Initial Enrollment Period
Your Medicare Initial Enrollment Period generally lasts seven months: three months before the month you turn 65, your birthday month, and three months afterward. Your exact timing can affect when coverage begins.
The decisions to make
- Whether to enroll in Medicare Part A and Part B.
- Whether you can delay Part B because of current employer coverage.
- How to obtain prescription drug coverage.
- Whether Medicare Advantage or Original Medicare with supplemental coverage better fits your needs.
Important: Enrollment rules can differ when you or your spouse are actively working. Do not rely only on the fact that you have insurance—confirm whether it is considered creditable coverage.
Our Turning 65 checklist
90–120 days before
Review employer coverage, Social Security status, doctors, prescriptions, travel needs, and monthly budget.
60–90 days before
Complete Medicare enrollment if needed and compare available plan structures.
30–60 days before
Confirm effective dates, member materials, pharmacy information, and doctor access.
After coverage begins
Keep your cards handy, verify prescriptions, and call with any questions.