When will my Medicare coverage start?
When you turn age 65, you can sign up for Medicare Part A (Hospital insurance) and/or Medicare Part B (Medical insurance) during your Initial Enrollment Period. This is the seven-month period that starts three months before you turn 65, includes the month you turn 65, and ends three months after you turn 65.
If you enroll BEFORE your birthday month, Medicare will start on the month you turn 65. If you enroll during your birthday month or later, your Medicare will start later. Coverage always starts on the first of the month.
| If you sign up for Part A/ B in this month: | Your coverage starts: |
|---|---|
3 months before you turn 65 | The first day of your birthday month |
2 months before you turn 65 | The first day of your birthday month |
1 month before you turn 65 | The first day of your birthday month |
The month you turn 65 | The first day of the next month after your birthday month |
1 month after you turn 65 | The first day of the next month |
2 months after you turn 65 | The first day of the next month |
3 months after you turn 65 | The first day of of the next month |
During the Jan. 1–Mar. 31 General Enrollment Period | The first day of the month after you sign up |
When will I get my Medicare card?
Once you sign up for Medicare, you'll get your red, white and blue Medicare card in the mail that looks like this:
Be sure to keep your card and number safe. Do not share them with anyone except your medical providers.
If you sign up for Part C (Medicare Advantage), Part D (prescription drug) or a Medigap plan, or have Medicaid, these plans will mail you a separate membership card. Keep these cards safe and bring them with your Medicare card to the medical provider or the pharmacy. You will need to let your providers know which plans you have.
What to do if you lose your Medicare card
If your Medicare card gets damaged or you lose it:
- Sign into Medicare.gov (www.medicare.gov) to get your number or print your official card.
- Call 1-800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227). TTY users can call 877-486-2048.
How do I change my name or address for my Medicare card?
Medicare uses the name and address you have on file with Social Security. To change your name and/or address, go to your Social Security account (www.ssa.gov).