Turning 65 Medicare Checklist
Use this comprehensive checklist to ensure you make all the right Medicare decisions when turning 65. Missing deadlines can result in permanent penalties, so follow this timeline carefully.
6 Months Before Your 65th Birthday
Start learning and planning early to make informed decisions.
Learn Medicare basics(Important)
Understand the difference between Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medigap, and Part D.
Review current coverage
Check if your employer coverage will continue and whether it's creditable coverage.
Make a list of your doctors
Note all physicians, specialists, and facilities you use regularly.
List your prescriptions
Document all medications with dosages and quantities for plan comparisons.
Understand your budget
Consider how much you can afford for premiums vs. out-of-pocket costs.
3 Months Before Your 65th Birthday
Your Initial Enrollment Period begins. Take action now for coverage starting on your birthday.
Enroll in Medicare Part A and Part B(Important)
Apply at ssa.gov, by phone (1-800-772-1213), or at your local Social Security office.
Decide: Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage
Compare coverage types based on your doctors, medications, and preferences.
If choosing Original Medicare, research Medigap plans
Compare Plan G and Plan N from multiple insurers for the best rates.
Research Part D prescription drug plans
Compare formularies and costs based on your specific medications.
Contact a Medicare advisor(Important)
Get free help comparing all your options.
Your 65th Birthday Month
Coverage can start this month if you enrolled in the 3 months prior.
Confirm Medicare enrollment processed
Verify your Medicare card has arrived or check your status at medicare.gov.
Enroll in your chosen plan(Important)
Whether Medicare Advantage, Medigap, or Part D, complete enrollment.
Notify your employer (if applicable)
Coordinate how Medicare will work with any continuing employer coverage.
Set up your Medicare.gov account
Create an account to manage your benefits online.
3 Months After Your 65th Birthday
Final window of your Initial Enrollment Period. Don't delay further.
Complete any remaining enrollments(Important)
Your IEP ends 3 months after your birthday month.
Confirm all coverage is active
Verify all plans are in effect and you have ID cards.
Schedule preventive care
Many preventive services are covered at 100% - take advantage of them.
Keep enrollment documents
Save all confirmation letters and plan documents for your records.
Pro Tips
- •Enroll early in your IEP to ensure coverage starts on your 65th birthday.
- •If you have employer coverage from a company with 20+ employees, you may be able to delay Medicare without penalty.
- •Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period starts when you're 65 AND enrolled in Part B - don't miss this guaranteed acceptance window.
- •Even if you don't take medications now, consider a low-premium Part D plan to avoid future late enrollment penalties.
- •Review your coverage every year during Annual Enrollment (October 15 - December 7).
Get Free Help With Your Medicare Enrollment
A licensed advisor can guide you through every step of this checklist at no cost.
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