When do I need to enroll in Medicare?

For most people, Medicare enrollment should occur during the Initial Enrollment Period, which is a 7-month window. This includes the three months before your 65th birthday, your birth month, and the three months after your 65th birthday.

However, there are situations where you may choose not to sign up for Medicare, such as:

• You have "creditable" health coverage through your employer.

• You have "creditable" health coverage through your spouse's employer.

• You want to continue contributing to a Health Savings Account (HSA).

If you don’t sign up for Medicare during your Initial Enrollment Period and don’t qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, you may face federally mandated penalties. It’s a good idea to consult with a licensed health insurance agent to fully understand your requirements and options.