Did You Get Your Social Security letter about turning 65? Here's Your Step-by-Step Medicare Enrollment Guide

Turning 65? If you received a letter from Social Security about Medicare, congratulations - it means your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is approaching. But what should you do next?

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you confidently navigate Medicare enrollment, plus insider tips for making wise decisions.

Step by Step Process After Receiving Your Turning 65 Letter for Medicare Enrollment:

Step 1: Read the Letter Carefully

Your Social Security letter outlines when your Medicare will begin and what parts, Medicare Part A, or Medicare Part B, you'll be automatically enrolled in, especially if you are already receiving Social Security benefits.

Step 2: Decide Whether to Keep or Delay Medicare Part B

• You may delay Part B to avoid the monthly premium if you still work and have credible employer coverage. Or if you have credible coverage from your spouse.

• If you are not working, you must enroll in Medicare Part B to avoid penalties.

Step 3: Explore Your Medicare Options

Now is the time to consider:

• Original Medicare (Medicare Parts A & B)

• Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C) - often includes dental/vision, drug coverage, etc.

• Medigap (Medicare Supplement) -helps pay for costs not covered by Original Medicare for a monthly premium

• Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D) - if you choose Original Medicare - you must add this

Step 4: Enroll in Additional Coverage (If needed)

Your initial enrollment is 7 months long:

• 3 Months before your 65th birthday

• Your Birthday month

• 3 Months after

TIP: Enroll early to ensure coverage begins the month you turn 65.

Step 5: Talk to a Licensed Medicare Advisor

Medicare is not one-size-fits-all, so you cannot take your friend Patty's advice, even if it is well-meaning. Or Pam's warnings about not choosing a particular plan. Your best bet is to work with a professional who can help you compare plans, review your medications and doctors, and explain which option fits your needs and budget best.

Step 6: Review and Organize Your Documents

Keep a copy of your Medicare card, enrollment paperwork, and any notes from your advisor in a safe place.

Bonus Tips:

• Double-check doctor networks and drug formularies before enrolling in a plan.

• Set a calendar reminder each year to review your Medicare plan during Open Enrollment (Oct 15 – Dec 7).

• Avoid Medicare scams—Social Security or Medicare will never call you to ask for payment or personal information.

• Use your Medicare Welcome Visit for a free preventive care check-up when you first enroll.

Ready to take the next step?

We literally wrote the book on Turning 65, and you can download The Comprehensive Guide to Turning 65 for free by clicking "Free Guide"!

FREE GUIDE

The Bedrock Group offers free, no-obligation Medicare reviews to help you understand your benefits and make the best decisions for your health and wallet. If you are ready for your complimentary consultation, please click the "Schedule Appointment" button below, and we will partner you with a licensed advisor in your area.

To learn more about The Bedrock Group, please continue below.

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At The Bedrock Group, we are a Veteran and First-Responder-owned, full-service insurance agency dedicated to helping you navigate your insurance and financial needs. We proudly offer complimentary consultations and no-cost Medicare Reviews.

We are headquartered in New Albany, Indiana, and have a full-service agency in Asheville, North Carolina.

We have advisors in 48 states ready to help with a wide range of services, including:

• Life Insurance

• Wealth Management

• Medicare Plans

• Medicare Advantage & Supplement (Medigap) Plans

• Hospital Indemnity

• Final Expense (Burial Planning)

• Mortgage Protection

• Business Insurance

• Retirement Planning

• Medicare Enrollment Assistance

• And more!

Have Medicare questions? Call our team at 502-200-1516 for help over the phone.

To schedule an in-person Medicare Benefits Review, please visit www.bedrockfg.com/scheduleappointment 

At The Bedrock Group and Senior Solutions, we're here to help!

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