Turning 65? Here’s What You Need to Know About Automatic Medicare Enrollment & Avoiding Penalties

If you're receiving Social Security benefits at least 4 months before your 65th birthday, great news: you're automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B—no action required.

✅ But here’s the catch: Original Medicare doesn’t cover everything. You’ll still need to review options for prescription drug coverage (Part D), Medicare Advantage, or Supplement (Medigap) plans to avoid costly coverage gaps.
(Read more in our Medicare 101 guide).

✅ What Does Automatic Medicare Enrollment Include?

If you're already receiving Social Security, you’ll be automatically enrolled in:

• Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance)

• Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance)

The Social Security Administration will mail your Medicare card and welcome packet about 3 months before your 65th birthday. There’s no need to apply separately.

⚠️ What If You Delay Enrollment? Understand the Penalties

Not everyone is enrolled automatically. If you’re not getting Social Security benefits before age 65, you’ll need to sign up during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)—a 7-month window that:

• Starts 3 months before your 65th birthday

• Includes your birthday month

• Ends 3 months after your birthday

Missing this window could lead to lifelong late penalties:

📌 Part B Late Enrollment Penalty

If you don’t sign up for Part B on time—and you don’t have other creditable coverage—you’ll pay a 10% premium increase for each 12-month period you delayed. This penalty lasts as long as you have Medicare.

📌 Part D Late Enrollment Penalty

If you go 63 days or more without creditable prescription coverage, you’ll pay a 1% penalty per month added to your Part D premium—for life.

💡 Avoid Confusion. Get Medicare Right with Medicare1st

Even if you’re automatically enrolled, choosing the right plan options—especially for Part D and Medicare Advantage—can be overwhelming.

At Medicare1st, we make Medicare simple. Whether you're:

• About to turn 65, or

• Assisting a retiring employee,

We provide free, expert guidance to help you choose the best plan for your health needs—without overpaying or missing deadlines.

✅ Don’t let Medicare mistakes cost you.
📞 Contact Medicare1st today for a free consultation and personalized Medicare guidance.