How many months before I turn 65 should I apply for Medicare?
The short answer
You can apply as early as 3 months before the month you turn 65. Your Initial Enrollment Period is a 7-month window: 3 months before your birthday month, your birthday month itself, and 3 months after.
The full explanation
Your Initial Enrollment Period opens 3 months before the month you turn 65. That gives you a 7-month window total to sign up for Medicare Parts A and B. Applying in those first 3 months is usually the smart move. If you sign up during your birthday month or in the 3 months after, your coverage start date gets pushed back, which could leave you with a gap.There is one common exception. If you are still working at 65 and covered by a qualifying employer health plan, you may be able to delay Medicare without penalty. The key word is qualifying. Coverage through a small employer, COBRA, or a retiree plan usually does not count, and waiting in those situations can trigger late enrollment penalties that follow you for life.If you are already collecting Social Security before you turn 65, Medicare enrollment often happens automatically. But if you have not started Social Security yet, you need to sign up on your own, either through Social Security online, by phone, or in person. Waiting to see what happens is how people accidentally miss their window.
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