3 Ways to Begin Your Medicare Coverage

Starting Medicare does not have to be complicated. Whether you are approaching 65 or already eligible, these three steps will help you get the right coverage in place without stress or guesswork.

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Understand Your Eligibility

Know when your enrollment window opens and whether you qualify now.

Check Your Eligibility

Age 65 or older

U.S. citizens and permanent residents who have lived in the U.S. for at least 5 years become eligible at 65.

Under 65 with a disability

After 24 months of receiving SSDI, you are automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B.

ESRD or ALS

End-Stage Renal Disease and ALS qualify you for Medicare at any age, often without a waiting period.

Your Initial Enrollment Period is a 7-month window: 3 months before your 65th birthday, your birthday month, and 3 months after. Enrolling in the first 3 months ensures your coverage starts on time.

Learn the Parts of Medicare

Medicare has four parts. Understanding each one helps you build the right coverage plan.

Explore the Parts

Part A: Hospital Insurance

Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health services. Usually free if you worked 10+ years.

Part B: Medical Insurance

Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive screenings, and medical equipment. Standard premium is $202.90/month in 2026.

Part C: Medicare Advantage

An all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurers. Often includes dental, vision, hearing, and drug coverage.

Part D: Drug Coverage

Covers prescription drugs. Sold by private insurers. Each plan has its own formulary (list of covered drugs) and premium.

Most people choose either Original Medicare (Parts A + B) with a Medigap supplement and Part D, or Medicare Advantage (Part C) which bundles everything. Our agents can help you compare both paths.

Enroll in Medicare

There are three ways to enroll. Choose the one that works best for you.

Get Help Enrolling

Online at SSA.gov

The fastest option. Visit ssa.gov/medicare and complete the application in about 10 minutes. Available 24/7.

By Phone

Call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778). Representatives are available Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 7 PM.

In Person

Visit your local Social Security office. Bring your birth certificate, proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency, and your Social Security card.

Before you enroll in a standalone Part D or Medicare Advantage plan, call us first. We can compare every plan available in your area and find the one that covers your specific medications at the lowest cost.

What to Have Ready Before You Enroll

Having the right documents on hand makes the enrollment process faster and smoother. Whether you enroll online, by phone, or in person, gather these items in advance.

If you are unsure about any of these documents or have questions about what applies to your situation, our agents can walk you through the process step by step.

Documents Checklist

Social Security number
Birth certificate or proof of age
Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency
W-2 forms or self-employment tax returns (if applicable)
Military discharge papers (if applicable)
Current insurance card (if you have employer coverage)
List of current prescription medications

Ready to Get Started? We Make It Simple.

Medicare Information Project serves beneficiaries across Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Arkansas, Kansas, and Texas. Our independent agents compare every plan available in your area and guide you through enrollment at no cost to you.

Call 813-699-5559 Request a Consultation

We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 17 organizations which offer 149 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local SHIP for information on all options.