Understand the timing, the basic parts of Medicare, and the questions worth asking before you compare coverage.
Start with Original Medicare.
Original Medicare is made up of Part A and Part B. Each part covers a different category of care and may have its own costs.
Hospital insurance
Helps cover inpatient hospital care, certain skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care.
Medical insurance
Helps cover services from doctors and other providers, outpatient care, durable medical equipment, and many preventive services.
What it doesn’t include
Many people also review prescription drug coverage, Medicare Advantage, or Medicare Supplement coverage based on their needs.
The right time depends on your situation.
Turning 65, continuing employer coverage, disability eligibility, and other circumstances can affect when you enroll.
Enrollment rules and eligibility vary. Verify your dates with Medicare, Social Security, or a licensed insurance agent before taking action.
Initial Enrollment Period
For many people, a seven-month window that begins three months before the month they turn 65, includes the birthday month, and continues three months after.
Employer coverage
If you or your spouse still have qualifying employer coverage, different timing rules may apply. Confirm the details before delaying enrollment.
Special circumstances
Moving, losing coverage, or certain other life events may create another opportunity to enroll or change coverage.
See how the main coverage paths differ.
Once the basics are clear, compare the role of Medicare Advantage, prescription drug coverage, and Medicare Supplement insurance.
Explore coverage options