If you are about to turn 65, this is one of the most important decisions you will make. Medicare has a very specific enrollment window — and if you let it pass, the consequences can follow you for the rest of your life.
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We explain it in under a minute:
What is Medicare?
Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 years or older, and for some younger people with certain disabilities. It is administered by the U.S. federal government.
Medicare is divided into different parts that cover different types of health services. The details of coverage, costs, and eligibility vary from person to person and depend on each individual's specific situation. To find out exactly which options are available in your area, we recommend speaking with a licensed advisor.
💡 For complete information about all the Medicare options available in your area, you can visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE. HG Insurance Group is not affiliated with the federal government or the Medicare program.
The 7-month window — the most important part
⚠️ Attention: If you miss your initial enrollment window, you may face a permanent penalty that increases your monthly premium for the rest of your life.
You have exactly 7 months to enroll when you turn 65:
3 months before your birthday
Your enrollment window opens. You can begin the process from here.
The month you turn 65
The ideal time to enroll so your coverage starts without delay.
3 months after your birthday
The window closes. If you enroll during these months, there may be a delay in when your coverage begins.
What happens if I miss the deadline?
If you do not enroll during your initial window and you do not have valid alternative coverage (such as employer insurance), you will face a late enrollment penalty that is added to your monthly premium — and that penalty does not go away. It stays with you for as long as you have Medicare.
💡 If you still have employer coverage when you turn 65, you may be able to wait. But you need to coordinate the transition carefully so you do not end up with gaps in coverage.
How do I enroll?
You can enroll in Medicare directly through Social Security (SSA.gov) or with the help of a licensed advisor. At HG Insurance Group we guide you through the entire process at no cost to you — from understanding your options to completing your enrollment correctly.
Are you turning 65 soon?
Don't wait. Talk to an advisor today — the consultation is at no cost to you.