Medicare: Where to Sign Up
Turning 65 brings a lot of questions—and one of the biggest is: “Where do I sign up for Medicare?” The good news is, enrolling doesn’t have to be complicated once you know the right steps.
At Covered by Tara, I help people every day understand not just when to sign up for Medicare, but also where and how to do it without stress or confusion. Here’s what you need to know.
Where to Sign Up for Medicare
You don’t sign up for Medicare at your doctor’s office or insurance company—it’s handled through the Social Security Administration (SSA). You can enroll in Medicare:
- Online: The fastest way. Go to www.ssa.gov/medicare. The application usually takes less than 15 minutes.
- By Phone: Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).
- In Person: Visit your local Social Security office (appointments recommended).
Which Parts Do You Sign Up For?
When enrolling, you’ll choose:
- Part A (Hospital Coverage): Most people get this premium-free.
- Part B (Medical Coverage): Has a monthly premium. You can delay if you’re still working and have creditable employer coverage.
Important: You don’t sign up for Part C (Medicare Advantage) or Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage) through Social Security. Once you have Parts A and B, you can choose Advantage or stand-alone Part D/Medigap plans through private insurance companies—with my guidance.
When to Sign Up
- Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): A 7-month window starting 3 months before your 65th birthday, your birthday month, and 3 months after.
- Special Enrollment Period (SEP): If you’re covered by creditable employer insurance, you can delay Part B and sign up later without penalty.
- General Enrollment Period (GEP): If you miss your IEP, you can apply Jan 1 – Mar 31 each year, with coverage starting July 1 (penalties may apply).
Why Work With a Broker After Signing Up
Signing up for Original Medicare (Parts A & B) is just the first step. Most people also need:
- Prescription drug coverage (Part D)
- Extra benefits like dental, vision, or hearing (via Medicare Advantage)
- Cost protection with Medigap (Medicare Supplement)
As an independent broker, I compare plans across carriers, explain your options in plain language, and help you avoid costly mistakes.
With me, you’re not just covered—you’re held.
Next Steps
If you’re asking “Where do I sign up for Medicare?”—the answer is through Social Security. But the bigger question is: “Which plan is right for me once I’m signed up?” That’s where I come in.
Schedule your free Medicare review today.
I’ll walk you through your enrollment and help you build a coverage plan that fits your health, budget, and peace of mind.
