SilverEdge is not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. We do not offer every plan available in your area. For all options, contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local SHIP.
Medicare · Updated for 2026

Turning 65? Here's your complete Medicare checklist.

You've got a 7-month window to enroll without penalty. We'll walk you through Parts A, B, C, and D — and help you pick the right combo for your doctors, drugs, and budget. Free, licensed, no pressure.

Talk to a licensed advisor Skip to checklist
Timing

Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

The 7-month window that starts 3 months before your 65th birthday month.

Example: If you turn 65 in September 2026, your IEP runs June 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026.

  • Enroll before your birthday month → coverage starts the first of your birthday month
  • Enroll during your birthday month → coverage starts the first of the next month
  • Enroll after your birthday month → coverage can be delayed up to 3 months

Still working? If you or your spouse have active creditable employer coverage (20+ employees), you may delay Part B without penalty. You'll get an 8-month Special Enrollment Period after coverage ends.

The checklist

What to sign up for, and when

1. Medicare Part A (Hospital)

Most people qualify for premium-free Part A based on work history (40 quarters). Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing, hospice.

Action: Enroll automatically if already on Social Security, or sign up via ssa.gov during your IEP.

2. Medicare Part B (Medical)

Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services. 2026 premium: $185/mo (higher if high-income).

Action: Enroll during IEP unless you have creditable employer coverage. 10% penalty per year of delay without coverage.

3. Choose: Advantage or Supplement

Medicare Advantage (Part C): Private plan that bundles A, B, D + extras (dental, vision, hearing). Often $0 premium. Network restrictions apply.

Medicare Supplement (Medigap): Pairs with Original Medicare. Covers deductibles/coinsurance. Any doctor that accepts Medicare. Higher premium ($100–$250/mo).

Action: Compare both options for your ZIP. This is the decision we help with most.

4. Part D (Prescription Drugs)

If you chose Medigap, you need a standalone Part D plan. If you chose Medicare Advantage with drug coverage (MA-PD), it's already included.

Action: We'll run your medication list against every Part D plan in your ZIP to find the lowest-total-cost match.

Common questions

Frequently asked

Do I have to sign up for Medicare if I'm still working?
If your employer has 20+ employees and your group coverage is creditable, you can delay Part B without penalty. When you leave, you get an 8-month Special Enrollment Period. If your employer has <20 employees, Medicare becomes primary and you should enroll on time.
What's the late enrollment penalty?
Part B: 10% added to your premium for every 12-month period you could have been enrolled — for life. Part D: 1% per month you go without creditable drug coverage — also for life.
Can I switch from Advantage to Medigap later?
Yes, during Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (Jan 1 – Mar 31) or Annual Enrollment (Oct 15 – Dec 7). But Medigap carriers can use medical underwriting after your 6-month Open Enrollment window, so switches can be harder later.
How much does a SilverEdge advisor cost?
Nothing. Insurance carriers pay us a commission when you enroll. Our job is to find your best plan, not theirs — we earn the same regardless of which plan you pick.

Ready to walk through it with an advisor?

Free, no pressure. Licensed in all 50 states. We'll review your doctors, drugs, and budget — and show you the right Medicare combo.

(833) 555-0199 Request a callback
Talk to a licensed advisor — (833) 555-0199