Medicare is complicated but we're here to help.
This page will help you understand the basics. For additional details on plans, coverage, costs, and more, download your guide.
Eligibility
Who is eligible for Medicare?
Individuals must be a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident for at least five consecutive years. You must also meet at least one of the following criteria for Medicare eligibility:
- You are age 65 or older and eligible for Social Security
- You are permanently disabled and have received disability benefits for at least two years
- You have been diagnosed with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease)
Do you have to take Medicare benefits at age 65?
It depends on your individual situation. We strongly encourage you to speak to one of our advisors to evaluate your options and ensure you avoid any potential penalties.
The Four Parts of Medicare
A
Covers hospital-related services
You usually don’t pay a monthly premium for Medicare Part A coverage if you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes while working for at least 10 years. This is sometimes called “premium-free Part A” and most people get it. If you don’t qualify for premium-free Part A, you can buy Part A.
B
Covers doctor’s office visits and outpatient hospital stays
You pay a premium each month for Medicare Part B. The standard Part B premium amount in 2025 is $185 (or higher depending on your income). Most people pay the standard Part B premium amount.
C
“Medicare Advantage” covers both Part A and Part B with additional coverage
Medicare Part C costs varies by the plan you select and the extra features it includes as this is a comprehensive alternative to Original Medicare offered by private companies.
D
Covers prescription drugs
Medicare Part D cost varies — they are set by insurance companies and are approved by the government.
Enrollment
Our advisors make it easy.
We streamline the enrollment process for you. Our advisors go the extra mile to ensure you have a simple, seamless experience getting started with the plan you choose.
When to Apply for Medicare
Initial enrollment period
begins three months before
the month you turn 65
Your 65th Birthday
Initial enrollment period
ends three months after
the month you turn 65
When you’re first eligible for Medicare, you have a 7-month Initial Enrollment Period. If you are eligible for Medicare when you turn 65, you can sign up during the 7-month period that begins three months before the month you turn 65, includes the month you turn 65, and ends three months after the month you turn 65. We recommend contacting one of our expert advisors for Medicare advice approximately six months before you turn 65.
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