Medicare 101: What to know before you enroll

Your Medicare timeline: When to enroll and why it matters.

So you're turning 65 soon. You know you need Medicare, but when exactly should you enroll? And what happens if you miss the deadline?

Let's clear up the confusion with a simple timeline. The good news: You have more time than you might think. The important news: Timing really does matter.

Your 7-month enrollment window.

Your initial enrollment period gives you 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

For example, if you turn 65 in July, your enrollment window runs from April 1 through October 31.

Why timing matters.

Avoid late enrollment penalties.

If you don't sign up during your initial enrollment period and don't have other qualifying coverage, you could face late enrollment penalties that stick with you for as long as you have Medicare — meaning higher premiums for years.

Ensure continuous coverage.

When you enroll affects when your coverage starts. If you enroll early in that window, your coverage typically begins the first day of your birthday month. Wait until later, and you might have a gap in coverage.

Access to all plan options.

During your initial enrollment period, you have guaranteed access to Medicare Supplement plans without health questions affecting your eligibility. Miss this window, and some plans may require medical underwriting.

Your Medicare action timeline.

Six months before you turn 65: start your research.

•    Review your current health needs and medications
•    Think about your preferred doctors and budget
•    Understand the basics of Medicare

Three months before you turn 65: get serious.

•    Schedule a consultation with an LMIA Medicare specialist
•    Learn about Medigap vs. Medicare Advantage plans
•    Start comparing specific plans

One - two months before you turn 65: make your decision.

•    Review plan recommendations with your LMIA specialist
•    Confirm coverage for your doctors and prescriptions
•    Complete your enrollment

Your birthday month: relax. 

If you've enrolled early, your coverage is handled. If not, don't panic — you still have time, but don't delay much longer.

Special situations:

Already receiving Social Security?

You'll automatically be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B. You'll still need to decide if you want additional coverage through a Medigap or Medicare Advantage plan — this is where LMIA can help.

Still working with employer coverage?

If you have health coverage through your employer, you may be able to delay Medicare enrollment without penalties — but rules vary. Contact LMIA to discuss your specific situation.

Don't wait until the last minute

Though you have a 7-month window, starting early gives you more time to make an informed decision without feeling rushed. Plus, enrolling in the first three months often means your coverage starts right when you need it.

LMIA’s Medicare specialists are here to help you navigate this timeline and ensure you don't miss any critical deadlines.

Ready to get started? Contact LMIA today to schedule your Medicare consultation and stay ahead of the timeline.