Turning 65: Medicare Enrollment Checklist
What to do in the months around your 65th birthday so you avoid gaps and penalties.
Know your Initial Enrollment Period
Your Initial Enrollment Period is the seven months around your 65th birthday — three months before, your birthday month, and three months after. Missing key pieces can mean gaps or late-enrollment penalties.
Decide early whether you want Original Medicare + Medigap + Part D or Medicare Advantage, and whether you have creditable employer coverage that lets you delay safely.
Practical checklist
List your doctors and drugs. Compare Advantage networks and Part D formularies. Calendar Medigap's open-enrollment window if you choose Original Medicare.
If you are still working with group coverage, confirm with your benefits administrator whether you can delay Part B without penalty.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the Part B late penalty?
- A lifelong premium increase if you delay Part B without qualifying creditable coverage.
- Do I need Medigap immediately?
- If you choose Original Medicare, the Medigap open-enrollment window is the best time to buy without underwriting in most cases.
Sources
- Medicare.gov — the official U.S. government Medicare site · reviewed 2026-01-15
- Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) · reviewed 2026-01-15
- OLYRON HealthMatch editorial methodology — how we source and rate options · reviewed 2026-01-15
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