Turning 65 is a big milestone, and for most people, it also means it’s time to start thinking about Medicare. Whether you’re retiring or still working, understanding how Medicare works at 65 can help you avoid late fees, gaps in coverage, and missed opportunities.
This guide covers what happens when you turn 65, when to enroll, and what your options are.
Who Needs to Enroll in Medicare at 65?
If you’re turning 65 and you’re not already receiving Social Security benefits, you need to actively enroll in Medicare. The key decision is whether to get:
- Original Medicare (Parts A and B), or
- A Medicare Advantage plan (Part C), which may include drug coverage and extra benefits
If you’re already collecting Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits, you’ll be enrolled in Parts A and B automatically. You’ll still need to decide whether to add a Part D drug plan or switch to Medicare Advantage.
Your Medicare Enrollment Window
You have a 7-month window to sign up for Medicare:
- 3 months before your 65th birthday month
- Your birthday month
- 3 months after your birthday month
This is called your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP).
Enrolling early helps ensure your coverage starts on time. If you wait until your birthday month or later, your start date may be delayed.
What If You’re Still Working?
If you have creditable coverage through your employer or union (typically a company with 20+ employees), you may be able to delay Medicare Part B and Part D without penalty.
But you should still enroll in Part A, since it’s usually premium-free and can work alongside your current coverage.
If you’re unsure whether your work coverage is considered “creditable,” ask your HR department or a licensed Medicare agent.
Medicare Plan Options at 65
Once you have Part A and Part B, you have a few choices:
- Stay with Original Medicare and add:
- A Part D prescription plan
- A Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan to help with out-of-pocket costs
- Join a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C), which replaces A and B and usually includes:
- Drug coverage
- Extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and transportation
Which route is better depends on your budget, health needs, and where you live.
Avoiding Late Penalties
If you miss your Initial Enrollment Period and don’t have other creditable coverage, you may face penalties:
- Part B: 10% added to your premium for every 12 months you delay
- Part D: 1% added for every month you go without drug coverage
These penalties can last for life, so it’s important to make a decision on time.
Common Questions
Q: Do I need Medicare if I have VA benefits?
A: Yes. VA coverage is not considered creditable for Part B or Part D. It’s best to speak with someone who understands both programs.
Q: What if I don’t take prescriptions?
A: You should still consider a basic drug plan to avoid the late enrollment penalty later.
Q: Can I change my plan later?
A: Yes. You can make changes every year during the Annual Enrollment Period (Oct 15–Dec 7).
Final Thoughts
Medicare doesn’t have to be overwhelming. If you’re turning 65 soon, the best thing you can do is review your options early, ask questions, and get help from someone who knows the system.
At Liberty Senior Benefits, our licensed agents walk you through everything — at no cost to you. We offer appointments by phone, video, or in person, whichever works best for you.
Turning 65 should be something you look forward to — not stress over. Let us help make the process easier.