How to Apply for Medicare
Updated September 2026 · 2026 figures from CMS and Medicare.gov
If you already get Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits, you're enrolled automatically in Parts A and B at 65 and your card arrives about 3 months before. Otherwise, apply for Medicare through Social Security — online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at a local office — during your Initial Enrollment Period.
Step by step
- Check whether you're automatic. Getting Social Security or RRB benefits at least 4 months before 65? You'll be enrolled; you can keep or decline Part B using the instructions sent with your card.
- Pick your timing. Apply in the 3 months before your 65th-birthday month so coverage starts on the 1st of that month.
- Apply for Parts A and B on the Social Security website (the online application takes about 10 minutes), by phone, or at a Social Security office. Railroad workers apply through the Railroad Retirement Board.
- Wait for your card. Your Medicare card and Medicare number arrive by mail.
- Choose how you get coverage. Either add a Part D plan and consider a Medigap policy, or join a Medicare Advantage plan. Use the Medicare.gov plan finder or contact plans directly.
What you'll need
- Your Social Security number and date and place of birth
- Citizenship or lawful residency information
- Your current health insurance, including employer and dates of coverage
- Bank details if you want premiums paid automatically
Signing up for Part B after employer coverage ends
If you delayed Part B because you or your spouse were still working, you have 8 months after the job or the coverage ends (whichever is first) to sign up without a penalty. You'll send Social Security two forms: CMS-40B (application for Part B) and CMS-L564 (request for employment information, completed by your employer), or upload them online.
If you missed your window
Sign up during the General Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31); coverage starts the month after you apply. You may owe a lifelong late penalty for Part B and Part D.
Free help
Every state has a State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) offering free, unbiased one-on-one Medicare counseling. See the Medicare phone numbers page for how to reach Medicare, Social Security and SHIP.
Frequently asked questions
How do I apply for Medicare?
Through Social Security: online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at a local Social Security office. You may be enrolled automatically if you already get Social Security.
When should I apply for Medicare?
Up to 3 months before the month you turn 65, so coverage starts on time.
Can I apply for Medicare without applying for Social Security?
Yes. You can sign up for Medicare only and claim Social Security later.
How long does it take to get Medicare after applying?
Usually a few weeks; your card comes by mail.