Turning 65

Turning 65? Here's exactly what to do about Medicare.

Your Initial Enrollment Period is a 7-month clock — and missing it can mean penalties that can last as long as you have Medicare. Get the plain-English rundown below, then free help from a licensed local agent if you want it.

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Your turning-65 timeline

When things happen — and what to do at each step.

3 months before 65

Your Initial Enrollment Period opens. This is the time to learn your options and decide on Part B, Part D, and whether you want Advantage or a Supplement. Acting now avoids gaps and penalties.

The month you turn 65

You're in the heart of your window. If you already have coverage through work, the rules differ — a licensed agent can tell you whether to enroll now or delay without penalty.

3 months after 65

Your Initial Enrollment Period closes. Miss it and you may wait for a special or general window — and Part B/Part D late penalties can apply for as long as you have Medicare.

Every year after

Annual Enrollment runs Oct 15 – Dec 7 — your yearly chance to switch plans. If you're already in a Medicare Advantage plan, you also get a Jan 1 – Mar 31 window to change Advantage plans or move back to Original Medicare. Plans change every year, so a yearly review pays off.

Which path fits depends on your doctors, prescriptions, budget, and whether you travel. A licensed agent can compare the plans available in your county with you — free, no obligation. We do not offer every plan available in your area.

Want a hand sorting it out?

A licensed local agent will reach out and walk you through your options — free, no obligation.
No cost · no obligation · a local licensed agent will reach out

There's a lot of mail and a lot of noise when you turn 65, and most of it is trying to sell you one specific plan. That's not what this is. LeadLoom simply connects you with a licensed local agent who can walk you through the choices that exist in your county and answer your questions — at no cost and with no obligation to enroll in anything.

Turning-65 Medicare questions

When should I sign up for Medicare?

Most people can first enroll during their Initial Enrollment Period — the 3 months before the month they turn 65, the month they turn 65, and the 3 months after. If you're still working and covered by an employer plan, special rules about creditable coverage may let you delay — but those rules are easy to get wrong, and missing the right window can trigger penalties even with employer coverage. A licensed agent can review your situation and confirm what applies to you.

Do I have to choose Medicare Advantage or a Supplement?

No. Original Medicare (Parts A and B) is the government program; from there you can add a standalone Part D drug plan and a Medigap supplement, or instead choose a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan. There's no single right answer — it depends on your doctors, prescriptions and budget.

Is this free? Will someone try to sell me something?

The help is free and there's no obligation. A licensed agent will reach out to compare your options. They earn a commission from the insurer only if you choose to enroll in a plan — it never costs you more, and you're free to say no.

Are you part of Medicare or the government?

No. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency. We do not offer every plan available in your area. For the full list of options, you can always contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE directly.