You can apply for Medicare during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP), which begins 3 months before the month you turn 65 and ends 3 months after the month you turn 65—a total of 7 months. This is the best time to sign up to avoid any gaps in coverage or late enrollment penalties. If you missed this period, you can apply during the General Enrollment Period from January 1 through March 31 each year, but your coverage won’t start until the following July and you may have to pay a late enrollment penalty. If you are under 65, you may be eligible to apply earlier if you have certain disabilities and have been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits for at least 24 months, or if you have conditions like ALS or end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Also, if you or your spouse are still working and covered by an employer's health insurance, you might qualify for a Special Enrollment Period to sign up for Medicare later without penalty. In summary:
- For most people, apply anytime from 3 months before turning 65 to 3 months after your birthday month.
- If disabled, you may qualify before age 65 after a waiting period.
- If you miss these periods, enroll during General Enrollment or a Special Enrollment Period if eligible.
