Signing Up for Medicare

Social Security signs you up for Medicare with no action on your part in certain circumstances. If you want a detailed walkthrough of Medicare parts, enrollment windows, and coverage options, see our Medicare Guide.

• You are coming up to your 65th birthday.
• You are already receiving retirement benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board.
• You are younger than sixty-five but eligible based on disability.
• You are older than sixty-five and delayed enrollment due to active employer coverage.

Nevertheless, you must contact Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board to begin retirement benefit payments.

Applying for Medicare Part A and B

Most individuals enroll at age sixty-five. However, because the full retirement age has gradually increased, you may need to actively apply instead of being automatically enrolled.

Signing Up from Inside the United States

Applying from within the United States is straightforward. It is helpful to understand the three available application methods.

Three Ways to Sign Up

1. Apply by phone
2. Visit your local Social Security office
3. Apply online

Documents to Provide

1. Your Social Security number
2. Original birth certificate
3. Marital status information
4. Legal residency and immigration documents
5. Evidence of employment

Living in Multiple Locations During the Year

You must enroll using your principal residence — the location where you file taxes, register to vote, and maintain your driver’s license. Even if you travel full-time, your base address is used for Medicare enrollment.

If English Is Not Your First Language

You may request an interpreter when calling or visiting Social Security. Interpreters are available at no charge in more than 150 languages.

Applying If You Are Not Fully Insured

Under Social Security rules, you must reside permanently in the United States or its territories to purchase Part A. You cannot establish residency in two places at the same time.

Opting Out of Part A or Part B

If automatically enrolled, you may decline Part B by following the instructions in your enrollment letter. If you apply manually, you must decide whether to opt in.

Declining Part A

You cannot opt out of Part A if receiving Social Security benefits unless you withdraw your application and repay benefits received.

Opting Out of Part B

Declining Part B requires careful consideration due to long-term financial implications.

When to Turn Down Part B (Age 65+)

You should decline Part B only if you have active employer group insurance.

When to Turn Down Part B (Under 65)

• You have employer health coverage.
• The employer has 100 or more employees.
• You are covered as a dependent on a qualifying group plan.

Risks of Declining Part B

• Individual marketplace insurance
• Employer coverage with fewer than 20 employees
• COBRA or retiree benefits
• Military health benefits
• Tricare for Life

Disenrolling from Part B

You may delay Part B without penalty if you have qualifying current employer coverage that is primary to Medicare.

This Medicare resource was provided by Amerus Insurance Group, a nationwide independent agency that helps seniors confidently compare plan options, control out-of-pocket costs, and enroll with the right coverage for their doctors, prescriptions, and lifestyle. Whether you’re new to Medicare or reviewing your current plan, speak with an Amerus advisor for a free, personalized consultation.