A Step-by-Step Guide to Signing up for Medicare Part A and Part B

How to Sign Up for Medicare Part A and B

Navigating the process of signing up for Medicare Part A and Part B can feel overwhelming, but with the right information, it’s manageable. Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) form the foundation of Original Medicare, covering hospital stays, doctor visits, and other essential healthcare services. This guide walks you through the steps to enroll, eligibility requirements, and key considerations to ensure a smooth process.

Understanding Medicare Part A and Part B

Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facilities, hospice, and some home health services. Part B includes outpatient care, doctor visits, preventive services, and durable medical equipment. Most people qualify for premium-free Part A if they or their spouse paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years but has an annual deductible of $1676. Part B, however, typically requires a monthly premium, which is currently $185.00 in 2025 for most beneficiaries and has a smaller deductible of $257.

Eligibility for Medicare

You’re eligible for Medicare if you’re 65 or older, a U.S. citizen or legal resident for at least five years and meet one of these criteria: you’re receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits, or you’re eligible to receive them. Additionally, individuals under 65 with certain disabilities or conditions like End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) may qualify.

When to Sign Up

The best time to enroll is during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP), a seven-month window that starts three months before your 65th birthday, includes your birthday month, and ends three months after. If you miss this period, you can sign up during the General Enrollment Period (January 1 to March 31 each year), but you may face late enrollment penalties, particularly for Part B, which increases your premium by 10% for each year you were eligible but didn’t enroll.

How to Sign Up

1. Automatic Enrollment: If you’re already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits, you’ll be automatically enrolled in Parts A and B starting the first day of your birth month. You’ll receive a Medicare card in the mail about three months prior. If you don’t want Part B (due to its premium), you can decline it by following the instructions included with your card.
2. Manual Enrollment: If you’re not receiving these benefits, you’ll need to actively sign up. You can do this in several ways:
   • Online: Visit the Social Security Administration’s website (ssa.gov) and complete the Medicare application. It’s straightforward and takes about 10-30 minutes.
   • By Phone: Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778) to schedule an appointment or enroll directly.
   • In Person: Visit your local Social Security office. Use the office locator on ssa.gov to find one near you.
3. Required Information: Have your personal details ready, including your Social Security number, birth date, and employment history. If applying online, you’ll need to create or sign into your “my Social Security” account.

Key Considerations

• Coverage Start Date: If you enroll during the first three months of your IEP, coverage typically starts the first day of your birth month. Delaying enrollment may delay coverage.
• Employer Coverage: If you’re still working and have employer-sponsored health coverage, you may delay Part B without penalty. Enroll during a Special Enrollment Period once your employer coverage ends to avoid penalties.
• Premiums and Costs: Confirm whether you qualify for premium-free Part A. For Part B, budget for the monthly premium and consider income-related adjustments if your income exceeds certain thresholds. Note that Part B premiums are deducted automatically from your monthly Social Security income check or if you’ve deferred taking social security retirement and still require Part B coverage, you will be billed quarterly.

Final Steps

Once enrolled, you’ll receive a Medicare card. Review it for accuracy and store it safely. If you have questions, contact Social Security or visit medicare.gov for detailed resources. Signing up on time ensures you avoid penalties and secure the coverage you need for your healthcare journey.