Turning 65 is a major life event — and if you're feeling overwhelmed by all the Medicare mail, ads, and advice flying your way, you're not alone.

This guide is here to simplify it all. We'll answer the real questions people have when they’re turning 65 and new to Medicare, using clear examples and insider tips that make choosing the right plan a lot less stressful.

How Do I Enroll in Medicare? Is It Automatic When I Turn 65?

If you're turning 65 and new to Medicare, enrollment may or may not happen automatically.

• If you're already collecting Social Security, you’ll likely be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B automatically.
• If you're not receiving Social Security yet, you’ll need to enroll yourself — ideally during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP), which starts 3 months before and ends 3 months after your 65th birthday.

Important: Missing your enrollment window can result in late penalties and coverage delays.

What Does Medicare Actually Cover?

Understanding what Medicare covers is key when you’re new to it:

• Part A – Hospital stays, skilled nursing, hospice care.
• Part B – Doctor visits, outpatient services, preventive care.
• Part C – Medicare Advantage plans from private companies that bundle A & B and often include extra benefits like dental, vision, and gym memberships.
• Part D – Prescription drug coverage.
• Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance) – Helps pay for deductibles, copays, and other out-of-pocket costs not covered by Original Medicare.

If you're turning 65 and evaluating your options, know that Part A and B are just the beginning — many people choose to enhance their coverage with a Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan.

How Much Does Medicare Cost at 65?

Let’s talk dollars. If you're turning 65 and new to Medicare:

• Part A is usually free (if you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years).
• Part B has a monthly premium, which may vary based on income.
• Part C (Advantage) and Part D (Drug plans) have their own premiums depending on the plan.
• Medigap policies also have premiums — but they help reduce your out-of-pocket costs.

When budgeting for retirement, it’s smart to compare total costs: premiums, copays, deductibles, and coverage gaps.

Can I Have Medicare Advantage and Medigap at the Same Time?

No. If you're turning 65 and looking into plans, you need to choose between these two paths:

• Medicare + Medigap + Part D
  OR
• Medicare Advantage (Part C), which often includes drug coverage and extras.

You can’t have both Medigap and a Medicare Advantage plan at the same time — so choosing the right path upfront matters.

What Are the Medicare Enrollment Periods and Penalties?

Timing is everything when it comes to Medicare. Here’s what you need to know:

• Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): Starts 3 months before and ends 3 months after the month you turn 65.
• General Enrollment Period: January 1 – March 31 each year (for those who missed IEP).
• Special Enrollment Periods: Triggered by certain events like losing employer coverage.

Missing these windows can mean higher premiums for life — especially for Part B and Part D.

Next Steps for People Turning 65 and New to Medicare

If you're nearing 65 and feel like you're drowning in information — take a deep breath. You don’t have to figure it out alone.

Start with this checklist:

• Mark your Initial Enrollment Period dates
• Decide between Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage
• Compare Part D drug coverage or Medigap options
• Get a quote and speak with a licensed expert who can walk you through your personal needs

Download my Medicare checklist today

Want Help from a Real Person?

We help people just like you every day. Let’s talk about your goals, doctors, travel plans, and prescriptions — and make sure you get a Medicare plan that fits your life.

Schedule your free Medicare consultation today

It is important to note that these are just a few examples of the questions individuals have when turning 65 and considering Medicare. As each person's situation may be unique, it is recommended to seek additional information and guidance from reliable sources like the official Medicare website and other reputable healthcare resources^[1][2][3][4].

Why People Choose Lehigh Partners Senior Benefits

When you're trying to make sense of Medicare, you deserve more than just generic advice. You deserve guidance that puts you first.

At Lehigh Partners Senior Benefits, everything we do is centered around your needs, your questions, and your peace of mind. Our team takes the time to understand your situation — whether you're retiring soon, still working, or just feeling overwhelmed by the mail and commercials.

You’ll get clear, personalized advice from professionals who listen and care. No pressure. No sales pitch. Just real help, when you need it most.

When you work with Lehigh Partners, you’re not just getting a Medicare plan — you’re gaining a trusted partner to walk with you through every step of your Medicare journey.