Am I Automatically Enrolled in Medicare?

September 22, 2020

In a perfect world, you would be automatically enrolled in health and retirement benefits. In the States, this isn't the case. You must enroll in Original Medicare in the months surrounding your 65th birthday. It's a tiny bit complicated since it also needs to be done during open enrollment, but that's why we're here to help.


Are you automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A when you turn 65?


That’s a complicated question. The Medicare site has this scenario.


“I’ll be getting benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) at least 4 months before I turn 65. Do I need to sign up? No. In most cases, you'll automatically get Part A and Part B starting the first day of the month you turn 65.”



You are not automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A when you turn 65 unless you are receiving social security at least four months before you turn 65. 


But, if you’re not on retirement yet, you’re not automatically enrolled in Medicare. Wouldn’t it be nice if your 65th birthday present was auto enrollment? Sadly, you have to sign up through the link on Social Security's website. You don't have to start receiving Social Security in order to have Medicare. You can enroll in Medicare even if you delay retirement benefits.


It would seem that you would be automatically enrolled in Medicare if you are on Social Security but it isn’t the case. So be sure to do some planning.


Are you automatically enrolled in Medicare Part D?


No, you are not automatically enrolled in Medicare Part D. Once you have Medicare Part A and/or Part B, you can enroll in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D).


If you are eligible for Medicare, you can sign up for Part D in the seven-month period beginning three months before your 65th birthday stretching through the three months after.


“When you join a Medicare drug plan, you'll give your Medicare Number and the date your Part A and/or Part B coverage started. This information is on your Medicare card.”


Medicare Part D is your optional prescription drug coverage. Offered by private insurance companies, it is available to anyone enrolled in Original Medicare. We know that choosing a prescription plan is not an easy task. This is why we have created a no-cost Medicare Guide to bring clarity.


Download Our No-Cost Medicare Guide


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