Medicare basics
How and when do I enroll in Medicare?
You become eligible at 65. Whether you are enrolled automatically, and what you still have to choose for yourself, depends on whether you have already claimed Social Security.
Four months before your 65th birth month
If you are not already drawing Social Security, this is when you can apply for Medicare through Social Security. We can help you with this step.
Your Initial Enrollment Period
It begins three months before you turn 65, includes your birth month, and ends three months after. Missing it can mean a higher premium later.
When your Medicare card arrives
As soon as you receive your red, white and blue Part A and Part B card, you can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, or a Medicare Supplement plus a Part D drug plan.
Every year after that
We review your plan during the Annual Enrollment Period and tell you what changed. Plans, networks and drug formularies all move year to year.
How do I get started?
You can trust CSG Insurance Pros agents to explain the process to you. Each plan is unique and it may be difficult to find a plan that fits your specific needs. Just because a plan works for a friend or family member does not mean it will work for you. Count on the advice of our licensed agents to find the right plan.
When can I enroll for Medicare?
You become eligible for Medicare when you turn 65 years old. However, if you have already claimed Social Security benefits at that time, you will be automatically enrolled in Medicare on your 65th birthday and will receive Parts A and B. To enroll in other Medicare programs such as Part C or D, you must meet with an insurance professional to select those benefits.
Those who have not already begun to draw Social Security benefits will need to apply for Medicare. We can help you with this. You can apply through Social Security four months prior to your 65th birth month. You can also begin enrolling in a Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement and Part D drug plan as soon as you receive your red, white and blue Medicare Part A and Part B card. If you fail to enroll during this initial enrollment period, you may be forced to pay a higher premium later. Only under very specific conditions can you delay enrollment without incurring a penalty.
Individuals who are still working or have insurance through their spouse’s employer can defer enrollment with no penalties. It is best to confer with an employer and a Medicare insurance professional to make sure you will not be penalized.
Are there penalties for enrolling late?
Yes. If you do not enroll in Part B coverage during your Initial Enrollment Period, you could be subject to premium penalties for as long as you have Medicare coverage. There is a separate Part D penalty as well, described on our types of Medicare plans page.
Enrollment questions
- When can I enroll in Medicare?
- You become eligible for Medicare when you turn 65. If you have already claimed Social Security benefits by then, you are automatically enrolled on your 65th birthday and receive Parts A and B. To enroll in other Medicare programs such as Part C or Part D, you must meet with an insurance professional to select those benefits.
- What if I have not started Social Security yet?
- You will need to apply for Medicare. You can apply through Social Security four months prior to your 65th birth month. You can also begin enrolling in a Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement and Part D drug plan as soon as you receive your red, white and blue Medicare Part A and Part B card.
- Can I delay Medicare enrollment without a penalty?
- Individuals who are still working, or who have insurance through a spouse's employer, can defer enrollment with no penalties. It is best to confer with your employer and a Medicare insurance professional to make sure you will not be penalized. Only under very specific conditions can you delay enrollment without incurring a penalty.
- Are there penalties for enrolling late?
- Yes. If you do not enroll in Part B coverage during your Initial Enrollment Period, you could be subject to premium penalties for as long as you have Medicare coverage.
Talk to a licensed Arizona Medicare agent
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