When to file for Medicare?

Turning 65 (Your Initial Enrollment Period – IEP)
Your Initial Enrollment Period lasts 7 months:
Starts: 3 months before the month you turn 65.
Ends: 3 months after the month you turn 65.
If You or Your Spouse Are Still Working and Covered by an Employer Group Plan
You can delay Part B (and Part A if you pay premiums) without penalty if you are covered by a group health plan through your or your spouse’s current employer.
You can enroll later during a SEP:
Starts: The month after your employment or group health coverage ends (whichever comes first).
Ends: 8 months later.
If You’re Under 65 and Have a Disability
After receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for 24 months, you’ll be automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B.
For End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or ALS, you may qualify for Medicare earlier.
Missing Initial Enrollment: General Enrollment Period (GEP)
If you miss your IEP and don’t qualify for a SEP:
When: General Enrollment runs January 1 – March 31 annually.
Coverage Begins: July 1 of the same year.
Downside: You may face late enrollment penalties.

Special Enrollment Periods