New To Medicare?

Key Points

  • Medicare Part A and Part B enrollment is handled through Social Security. Additional coverage, such as Part C, Part D, or Medigap, is obtained through private insurance carriers.

  • If you have other creditable coverage, like comprehensive employer insurance, you may be able to delay Medicare past age 65 without facing penalties.

  • Most people enroll during their 7-month Initial Enrollment Period, which begins three months before the month they turn 65 and ends three months after.

Feeling confused? You're not the only one.

New Medicare beneficiaries often face challenges understanding the system. The different parts and plans—many labeled with similar letters—can be confusing to navigate.

To make matters more overwhelming, the flood of mail that arrives after turning 65 only adds to the confusion. It’s common for local clients to bring in bags of mail, asking us to help sort through what’s important and what can be tossed.

New to Relying on Medicare as your Primary Insurance

Transitioning from employer coverage to Medicare can feel overwhelming at first, but once you understand the steps, the process becomes much simpler. Most of the information you need for Medicare planning is available right here on this website.

To start, know that the Social Security office only handles enrollment for Original Medicare — Parts A and B. Any additional coverage, such as Part C, Part D, or supplemental plans, must be arranged separately, usually through a licensed insurance agent or agency.

If you’re already receiving Social Security benefits, you’ll be automatically enrolled in both Part A and Part B. If not, you’ll need to initiate the enrollment yourself.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the steps to get started

  1. Confirm your Medicare eligibility.

  2. Review Medicare costs so you know what to expect.

  3. Apply for Medicare through your local Social Security office or online.

  4. Once you receive your red, white, and blue Medicare card, double-check that you’re enrolled in both Part A and Part B—Part B is crucial if Medicare will be your primary coverage.

  5. Explore your options: Medicare Advantage or a Medicare Supplement plan.

  6. Learn about Part D and select the prescription drug plan that fits your needs.

  7. Get expert help by working with an agency like ours—our services are free, and we’re here to answer your questions.

  8. Reevaluate your coverage regularly to ensure you’re getting the right protection at the best price.

New to Medicare with Employer Insurance

If you’re still working, the steps you need to take may look a bit different. Many people continue employment past age 65, which brings additional decisions to consider.

Should you keep your employer coverage and enroll in Medicare to coordinate with it? Or would it be more cost-effective to drop your employer plan, use Medicare as your primary coverage, and add supplemental insurance?

The right choice depends on several factors, including the size of your employer and the cost of your share of the coverage. Visit our New to Medicare with Employer Coverage page for a full breakdown of your options.

Frequently Asked Questions for New Medicare Beneficiaries

Each year, we hear from many new Medicare beneficiaries with questions. Here are some of the most common ones:

At what age does Medicare begin?

You become eligible for Medicare at age 65, even if you’re not yet receiving Social Security income benefits. Some individuals may also qualify before 65 due to certain disabilities or medical conditions.

How do I get Medicare

Social Security offers a quick and easy online Medicare application that takes less than ten minutes to complete. You don’t need to be receiving income benefits to apply—just visit the Social Security website and follow the Medicare application links.

Is it obligatory to enroll in Medicare upon reaching the age of 65?

This is an excellent inquiry, as numerous individuals may not be aware that Medicare does not extend coverage to every health-related expense beneficiaries may encounter.

How can I determine the appropriate time to sign up?

For most people, the best time to enroll in Medicare is during the Initial Enrollment Period—a 7-month window when you should sign up for Part A and Part B to avoid late penalties.

How can I obtain a replacement Medicare card?

You can print a copy of your Medicare card by logging into your Medicare account. If your card is lost or stolen—and you need a new Medicare number or a name change—you’ll need to request a replacement through your Social Security (SSA) account.

What is the cost of Medicare?

While Medicare Part A may be $0 per month for the majority, Part B carries a base premium of $185.00 in 2024.

Key Takeaways

  • If you have been receiving Social Security benefits before reaching Medicare eligibility, enrollment in Medicare Part A and B may occur automatically.

  • However, for the majority, signing up for Medicare during the 7-month Initial Enrollment period is essential to avoid late enrollment penalties.

  • Planning your Medicare enrollment in advance contributes to a seamless transition. As Medicare eligibility typically begins around age 65, conducting research before this milestone is advisable.

Side By Side Insurance Solutions - Get FREE Assistance

If Medicare feels confusing, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Our friendly, knowledgeable agents are here to guide you every step of the way—making the process simple and stress-free.


We start with the basics, helping you understand your Original Medicare coverage. This foundation is key to finding the supplemental plan that fits your needs, especially if you’re new to Medicare.

Once your policy is in place, you’ll have peace of mind knowing we’re just a phone call away whenever you need help or have questions.

Best of all—our services are completely free. Experience the difference of having Side By Side Insurance Solutions on your side. Call (863) 450-1777 or click the button below to get started:

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