Our Gift To You: A Free "Turning 65" Checklist

Everything you need to do to get Medicare coverage on time during the Initial Enrollment Period. Sign up for text reminders when your IEP begins!

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Thank you for signing up! You'll receive your first text reminder at the beginning of your IEP period.

Download Your Free "Turning 65" Checklist Here!

Turning 65 means more than getting senior discounts at your local restaurant. From checking in on your retirement funds (even if you’re not planning to call it quits just yet) to making a doctor visit (even if you’re in tip-top shape), turning 65 can be a busy time.

Set aside plenty of time to ensure you get the right Medicare plan. Signing up for Medicare is one of the most important parts of turning 65, but it can be confusing. HealthCarePlans.com makes it easy to prepare before your milestone birthday. Download your free “Turning 65” Checklist today and make sure you’re on track with Medicare coverage for years to come.

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Initial Enrollment Period 101:
you've got questions, we've got answers

The Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is your chance to sign up for Original Medicare around your 65th birthday. It’s a seven-month period that starts three months before your birthday month and ends three months after your birthday month. If you enroll before your birthday, your coverage begins on the first day of the month you turn 65. Enroll in a Medicare plan during this period to avoid any potential late enrollment fees. Here are some other questions you might ask yourself about the IEP.

What are the different types of Medicare and what do they cover?

Medicare Part A: Inpatient care (hospital, hospice, skilled nursing facility).
Medicare Part B: Preventive services, ambulance services, and more.
Original Medicare: Part A and Part B combined.
Medicare Advantage (Part C): Run by private insurers; covers Parts A and B plus potentially additional benefits like vision and dental coverage.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap): Covers health care costs Original Medicare doesn’t, like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.
Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D): Generic drugs and drugs on a tiered basis (call for more information).

Do I have to sign up for Medicare right now?

You are entitled to Medicare once you turn 65, but not required to enroll. The Initial Enrollment Period is a good time to enroll in a Medicare plan. You’ll avoid potential late enrollment fees and start receiving benefits around your 65th birthday.

When will my coverage start?

Depending on when you enroll, your coverage start may vary.

If you enroll within the three months before your birthday month, your coverage starts on the first day of your birthday month.
If you enroll during your birthday month or the three months that follow, your coverage will be delayed. Call for more information.

It’s better to enroll early in the IEP to avoid any delay in your coverage.

What if I still have coverage through work?

If you still have coverage through work, talk to your health administrator to see if and when you should enroll in a Part B plan.

What if I’m already getting benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB)?

You most likely wouldn't have to enroll in Medicare if you already receive Social Security benefits or the Railroad Retirement Board. If you’re getting these benefits, in most cases, you’ll automatically get Part A and Part B starting the first day of the month you turn 65.

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