MediCare
Your Medicare Guide
Understanding Medicare — who qualifies, how to enroll, and what to do next — is one of the most important steps you can take as you approach or pass age 65.
Download the Free GuideWho Qualifies for Medicare?
Seniors typically qualify for Medicare at age 65, or earlier if they have certain disabilities, end-stage renal disease (ESRD), or ALS. Enrollment is often automatic if you're already receiving Social Security benefits — but many need to apply actively through Social Security channels.
Eligibility Basics
Most people 65 or older who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents qualify, especially if they've paid Medicare taxes for 10 years or through a spouse. Under 65, eligibility comes after 24 months on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), or immediately for ALS or ESRD cases.
Enrollment Rules: What You Must Know
Missing key enrollment deadlines can result in permanent late penalties. Understanding these rules ahead of time can save you significant money.
Part A — Hospital Coverage
Premium-free for most people and automatic if you're on Social Security 4 or more months before turning 65. Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing, and some home health services.
Part B — Medical Coverage
Requires active signup and has a monthly premium. Missing your Initial Enrollment Period — which runs 3 months before and after your 65th birthday month — triggers lifelong late penalties.
Your Initial Enrollment Period is a 7-month window: 3 months before, the month of, and 3 months after your 65th birthday. Signing up during the first 3 months means coverage starts the month you turn 65. Waiting until after your birthday month delays coverage — and Part B late penalties are permanent, adding 10% to your premium for each full 12-month period you were eligible but didn't enroll.
How to Apply for Medicare
You can sign up in three ways. Apply up to 3 months before your 65th birthday to ensure coverage starts on time. Expect your Medicare card to arrive about 3 months before coverage begins.
Apply Online
Sign up at SSA.gov using a "my Social Security" account — the fastest option for most people.
Call SSA
Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778) to speak with a Social Security representative who can walk you through enrollment.
Visit a Local Office
Find your nearest Social Security office at ssa.gov/agency/contact — Bay Area offices are located throughout San Mateo, Santa Clara, Alameda, and Marin counties.
Next Steps After Parts A & B
Once you have Parts A and B, you'll need to decide whether to add prescription coverage, choose a Medicare Advantage plan, or purchase supplemental Medigap coverage. Use Medicare.gov's plan finder for Bay Area options.
| Option | What It Does | Good For |
|---|---|---|
| Part C — Medicare Advantage | Bundles Parts A, B, and usually D through a private insurer | Those who want a single plan with extra benefits like dental or vision |
| Part D — Prescription Drug | Standalone prescription drug coverage added to original Medicare | Those on original Medicare who need drug coverage |
| Medigap (Supplement) | Fills gaps in original Medicare — copays, coinsurance, deductibles | Those who want maximum coverage and predictable costs |