Do I have to enroll in Medicare at age 65 if I am already collecting Social Security?

Turning 65 while receiving Social Security benefits means automatic enrollment in Medicare Part A (hospital coverage, often free) and Part B (medical insurance, with a monthly premium). Social Security handles this initial sign-up and will send you information before your 65th birthday.

• Medicare Part A covers basic hospital visits and some home health, hospice, and skilled-nursing care. If you are receiving or are eligible to receive Social Security retirement benefits, you do not pay premiums for Part A.

• Medicare Part B is akin to standard health insurance and carries a premium. The base rate in 2025 is $185 a month. Higher-income individuals pay more depending on their income.

You have the option to refuse Part B, for instance, if you have existing primary insurance. However, enrolling in Part B later without creditable coverage could result in penalties. Note that Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) and Part D (drug coverage) require separate enrollment.

If you want to enroll in Medicare Part C, a private insurers’ alternative to Parts A, B, and often prescription coverage that is better known as Medicare Advantage, you must sign up on your own. The same goes for standalone Part D prescription drug coverage. You can find more information on Social Security’s Medicare at https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up.