Transitioning to Medicare Explained
First, you should know that waiting to sign up for Medicare can cause you problems. For example, you may have to pay a fine and you could experience a gap in coverage. Only during select times can you enroll in Medicare. Some individuals receive Medicare benefits automatically, while other people have to apply.
The first period you can enroll is called your initial enrollment period, which is seven months long. This term usually starts three months before the month you turn 65 and concludes three months after the month you turn 65. If you’re already getting Social Security benefits, you’ll be automatically enrolled into Medicare. Otherwise, you have to enroll yourself.