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Medicare Doesn’t Have to Be Confusing. We Make It Simple.

Medicare Basics

If you’re approaching 65, you might have questions about Medicare—what it is, when to sign up, and how to make the right choice. We’re here to simplify the process so you feel confident and informed!

What is Medicare?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program that helps cover medical costs for:

  • People 65 and older
  • Some individuals under 65 with certain disabilities
  • People diagnosed with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease)

Medicare is divided into four parts. Each covers different types of healthcare services:

  • Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) – Covers hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home healthcare services. Most people get Part A for free if they or their spouse paid Medicare taxes while working.
  • Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) – Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and some home healthcare. Part B has a monthly premium.
  • Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) – An alternative to Original Medicare (Parts A & B) offered by private insurance companies. These plans often include extra benefits like dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage.
  • Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage): Helps cover the cost of prescription medications.

One common choice is to enroll in Original Medicare (Parts A & B) and add Part D for prescription coverage. Another popular route is to choose a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan, which combines hospital, medical, and sometimes drug coverage into one plan.

Medicare Eligibility Requirements

Most people qualify for Medicare when they turn 65. However, some individuals under 65 are also eligible. You qualify for Medicare if:

  • You are 65 or older and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
  • You are under 65 and have received Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for at least 24 months.
  • You have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or ALS, regardless of age.

Medicare Age and Enrollment Timeline

Medicare enrollment follows a specific timeline based on your age and circumstances.

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) – Your First Chance to Enroll

  • A 7-month window that starts 3 months before your 65th birthday, includes your birth month, and continues for 3 months after.
  • Example – If you turn 65 in June, your IEP runs from March 1 to September 30.
  • Enrolling during this time ensures you avoid late penalties.

Special Enrollment Period (SEP) – If You Have Employer Coverage

  • If you have health coverage through an employer (yours or your spouse’s), you may be able to delay Medicare enrollment without penalties.
  • When that coverage ends, you get an 8-month window to enroll in Medicare.

General Enrollment Period (GEP) – If You Miss Your Initial Window

  • Runs January 1 – March 31 each year.
  • Coverage starts July 1, and late penalties may apply.

Can You Delay Medicare Enrollment?

You can wait to enroll in Medicare without penalties if you have active health insurance through your employer or your spouse’s employer.

Once that coverage ends, you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period to sign up for Medicare without penalties.

When and How to Apply for Medicare

In terms of when to apply for Medicare, you should do so during one of these opportunities:

  • During your Initial Enrollment Period (when turning 65).
  • During a Special Enrollment Period if you delayed Medicare due to employer coverage.
  • During the General Enrollment Period if you missed your initial opportunity.

So how, exactly, do you apply for Medicare? First, know that you don’t have to figure it out on your own. We’ll guide you through the entire process to make sure everything is done correctly and on time.

Once we’ve worked with you to select the perfect plan, you can enroll in Medicare in three ways:

  1. Online – Visit www.ssa.gov to apply online.
  2. By Phone – Call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213.
  3. In Person – Visit your local Social Security office (appointments recommended).

How Family Medicare Advisors Can Help

Medicare decisions can be confusing, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. At Family Medicare Advisors, we:

  • Explain your Medicare options in clear, simple terms.
  • Help you apply for Medicare and avoid mistakes or penalties.
  • Find the right plan for your needs—at no cost to you.

Our services are 100% free.  The insurance company pays us, not you. If you’re ready to find out which Medicare plan is ideal for you, call us now at (888) 556-3037.