If you’re celebrating your 65th birthday this year, congratulations — it’s a major milestone! It also marks the time when you become eligible for Medicare, the federal health insurance program for seniors. But with multiple parts, plan options, and deadlines, getting started can feel overwhelming.
At Senior Insurance Solutions, we help seniors find the right Medicare plan to fit their needs and lifestyle. We’re a licensed Medicare agent out to find the best plan for you. Don’t worry — this checklist will help you understand what to expect and how to prepare so you can make confident choices about your healthcare.
Keep reading to learn more!
Step 1: Know Your Medicare Enrollment Window
Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is a 7-month window that begins three months before the month you turn 65 and ends three months after.
Example: If your birthday is in July, your IEP runs from April 1 to October 31.
Enrolling early ensures your coverage begins on time and helps you avoid late penalties. If you’re already receiving Social Security benefits, you’ll be enrolled automatically in Parts A and B — but you may still need to add Part D or consider additional coverage.
Step 2: Understand the Basics: Medicare Parts A, B, C & D
A quick breakdown:
- Part A (Hospital Insurance): Covers hospital stays, skilled nursing facilities, and hospice care.
- Part B (Medical Insurance): Covers doctor visits, preventive care, and outpatient services.
- Part C (Medicare Advantage): An all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurance companies. Many include drug coverage and extras like dental and vision.
- Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage): Helps pay for your medications. Even if you’re not taking prescriptions now, it’s important to enroll to avoid future penalties.
Step 3: Choose Between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage
You have two main paths:
- Original Medicare (Parts A & B):
- You can see any doctor who accepts Medicare.
- You may want to add a Part D plan and a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan to help cover costs.
- Medicare Advantage (Part C):
- Combines hospital, medical, and often drug coverage into one plan.
- May include extras like vision, dental, and fitness memberships.
- Usually requires you to use a provider network.
Your decision depends on your budget, doctors, travel habits, and health needs.
Step 4: Don’t Forget Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D)
Even if you’re healthy now, enrolling in a Part D plan protects you from future drug costs and late enrollment penalties. Compare plans based on the medications you currently take — formularies (covered drugs) and pharmacy networks can vary widely.
Step 5: Consider a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plan
If you choose Original Medicare, you may want to add a Medigap policy to help with out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and copays.
Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period begins the month you turn 65 and are enrolled in Part B. During this time, you can buy any plan without answering health questions, so don’t miss it!
Step 6: Gather the Info You’ll Need
Before you start comparing plans or speaking with an agent, make sure you have:
- Your Medicare number (if already enrolled)
- A list of current prescriptions
- Your preferred doctors or clinics
- Budget and coverage preferences
- Details about any employer coverage (if you’re still working)
Step 7: Talk to a Trusted Medicare Agent
Navigating Medicare on your own can be confusing. A licensed Medicare agent can walk you through your options, explain the fine print, and help you compare plans at no cost to you.
Get Answers to Your Medicare Questions
Don’t let Medicare deadlines sneak up on you. With the right guidance and a solid plan, you can step into your 65th year with confidence and peace of mind. Need help getting started? Licensed Medicare agent AdriAnn Bossie at Senior Insurance Solutions makes the process simple and stress-free.
Take the first step toward smart Medicare coverage — contact AdriAnn today. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
