Turning 65
Your 7-month window
Turning 65? Here's the calm checklist.
A short, plain timeline for your turning-65 year — including the dates that trigger permanent penalties if you miss them.
The 7-month window
Your Initial Enrollment Period is the 3 months before you turn 65, the month of your birthday, and the 3 months after. Missing it can trigger a permanent late penalty on Part B and Part D.
Step by step
1
About 6 months before 65
Check whether you are already on Social Security. If yes, Medicare Part A and B usually start automatically.
2
4 months before
Decide whether to take Part B now, or delay because you have employer coverage.
3
3 months before
Enroll in Part A (and Part B if needed) through Social Security if you are not auto-enrolled.