Turning 65? Your Complete Medicare Enrollment Checklist

Turning 65 is a big milestone -- and Medicare eligibility is one of the most important parts of it. The process can feel overwhelming, but it does not have to be. Here is a clear, step-by-step checklist so you know exactly what to do and when.

• Are you still working and covered by an employer health plan?
• Is your employer's plan from a company with 20 or more employees?
• Are you covered under a spouse's employer plan?

Your answers determine whether you need to enroll in Medicare at 65 or whether you can delay without penalty.

Visit ssa.gov to verify your work history and confirm you qualify for premium-free Part A (requires 40 quarters of work).

Learn the difference between Original Medicare + Medigap vs. Medicare Advantage. This is a good time to call an independent broker (like me) who can walk you through both options without any sales pressure.

If you are not receiving Social Security benefits yet, you need to actively enroll in Medicare. You can do this:

• Online at ssa.gov/medicare
• By calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213
• In person at your local Social Security office

Enroll 3 months before your birthday month to ensure your coverage starts on the first day of your birthday month.

If you are already receiving Social Security benefits, you will be automatically enrolled in Part A and Part B and will receive your Medicare card in the mail about 3 months before your 65th birthday.

This is the most important decision you will make. Key factors:

• How often do you see doctors and specialists?
• Do you travel frequently?
• What are your prescription drug needs?
• What is your budget for monthly premiums vs. out-of-pocket costs?

Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period starts the month you are both 65 and enrolled in Part B. During this 6-month window, insurers cannot deny you or charge you more based on health history. This is the best time to enroll -- do not miss it.

If you chose Original Medicare, enroll in your Medigap plan now so coverage starts the same month as your Part B.

Whether you choose Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage without drug coverage, enroll in a standalone Part D plan. Compare plans based on your specific medications at Medicare.gov/plan-compare.

If you are leaving employer coverage, notify your HR department and current insurer of your Medicare start date to avoid overlapping coverage or gaps.

Your red, white, and blue Medicare card should arrive in the mail. Keep it in a safe place -- you will need it at every medical appointment.

Give your Medicare number (and Medigap or Medicare Advantage plan information) to all your healthcare providers.

Create an account at Medicare.gov to view your coverage, track claims, and access your Medicare Summary Notice.

Medicare plans change every year. Review your plan's Annual Notice of Change and compare it against other available options. Changes take effect January 1.

This checklist covers the basics, but every person's situation is different. If you are still working, have a spouse with different coverage, take specialty medications, or have complex health needs, the right path for you may look different.

I help people navigate this transition every day -- at no cost to you. Call me at (386) 871-3858 and I will make sure you get into the right coverage from day one.