Medicare Starts Hereâ„¢
by Lehigh Partners Senior Benefits
Signing up for Medicare doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re ready to enroll in Part A and B or just need Part A for now, there are three simple ways to get started:
online, by phone, or in person.
This page walks you through each option with clear, visual instructions—no jargon, no confusion. You’ll also learn how and when your Medicare card will arrive once you apply.
If you're turning 65 soon, this is your first step.
Basic information about yourself
- Social Security number
- Where you were born (city, state, country)
Health insurance information
- Start and end dates for any current group health plans
- Start and end dates for any group health plans after age 65
For Part B only
- Valid email address
- Your existing Medicare number
Sign Up for Medicare in 3 Simple Ways
Choose one option below to enroll:
By phone. In person. Online.
Follow the steps. Stay on track. Avoid delays.
Call Social Security → Apply by Phone
By Phone:
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213
You can speak with a representative weekdays from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. (local time), in English, Spanish, and other languages.
Let them know you'd like to enroll in Medicare Part A and B, or Part A only if that’s your situation.
Call TTY +1 800-325-0778 if you're deaf or hard of hearing.
Visit Your Local Office → In-Person Help
In Person:
Visit your local Social Security office.
1. Find Your Local Office
Use the Social Security Office Locator to search by ZIP code and get directions.
Offices are typically open Monday to Friday, 9 AM – 4 PM (hours may vary). Arrive early or make an appointment if available.
Apply Online at SSA.gov → Quickest Option
Online:
Go online to www.ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up
If you’re 65 or older, you can apply online for:
- Part A and Part B
- Part A only (if you’re still covered by an employer plan)
- Part B only (if you have Part A but didn’t enroll in B)
Receive your Medicare ID card by mail:
Your Medicare card will be mailed to you by the U.S. Postal Service. It arrives in a plain white envelope from the Department of Health and Human Services or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Medicare does not provide a digital version—only a physical card is issued.
How Long Does It Take to Receive Your Medicare Card After Applying?
Once you apply for Medicare, your ID card typically arrives within 2 to 4 weeks after your application is processed. During busy enrollment periods—especially in the months leading up to your 65th birthday—it may take up to 30 to 45 days.
How to Check the Status
You can check the status of your application by logging into your Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount, or by calling Social Security directly at 1-800-772-1213.
Final Thoughts
No matter which sign-up method you choose—by phone, online, or in person—the important thing is that you take action. Signing up for Medicare on time helps you avoid coverage delays or costly penalties. If you're unsure where to begin or have questions along the way, you're not alone. We're here to make Medicare simple, not stressful. When you're ready, Lehigh Partners can help guide you through the next step with clarity and confidence.
Faq
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213. TTY users can call 1-800-325-0778. Contact your local Social Security office. If you or your spouse worked for a railroad, call the Railroad Retirement Board at 1-877-772-5772.
If you're 65 or older, you can enroll online for Parts A and B, or Part A only. You can delay Part B if you're already covered through an employer group health plan. The application is for retirement benefits and Medicare, or Medicare only.
If you're not automatically enrolled around the time you turn 65, the first step in getting original Medicare (Part A and Part B) is applying. You can do this online or by phone, as well as in person at your local U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) office.
📌 Special Enrollment for ESRD (Kidney Failure)
Most people sign up for Medicare when they turn 65 — but if you have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), you may qualify earlier.
To apply, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 and let them know you're enrolling in Medicare due to ESRD.
Phone lines are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. (local time) and support is available in English, Spanish, and other languages.
I finally feel at peace with my Medicare decision — no more guessing.
" I was so confused trying to figure out Medicare on my own. The mail, the calls, the websites — it was too much. Talking to Lehigh Partners was the first time I felt like someone actually listened. They explained everything in plain English and helped me choose a plan that fit. I finally feel at peace with my decision."
Carol M., Bethlehem, PA
We'll show you which Medicare plan covers your doctors and prescriptions — even if you’re overwhelmed by all the options.
No pressure. No confusing jargon. Just a quick, honest look at what makes the most sense for you.
