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Turning 65 or New to Medicare? You Don’t Have to Figure This Out Alone.

If you’re approaching Medicare eligibility, it’s normal to have questions about when to start, how enrollment works, and what options are available. Medicare can feel confusing at first, but with the right guidance, the process can be straightforward and manageable.

At NC Senior Solutions, we help individuals new to Medicare understand their choices, enroll at the right time, and select coverage that fits their healthcare needs and budget.

Many people reach out to us about six months before turning 65, which is a great time to begin — but if you haven’t started yet, that’s okay. In most cases, you still have time, and we are happy to help you get on track.

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Step 1

Knowing When to Start

Turning 65

Most people first become eligible for Medicare when they turn 65. Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is a 7-month window that includes:

3 months before your 65th birthday month
The month you turn 65
3 months after

Enrolling during this window helps ensure your Medicare coverage starts on time.

If You’re Coming Off Employer or Group Coverage After 65

Many people delay Medicare because they are still working or covered under a spouse’s employer plan. When that group coverage is ending, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).

This allows you to:

Enroll in Medicare Part B without penalty
Transition smoothly from employer coverage to Medicare

Timing is important, and the rules can vary depending on the size of the employer and how your current coverage works. We can help you understand when and how to enroll so your coverage continues without interruption.

If You’re on Disability and Becoming Eligible for Medicare

If you are receiving Social Security Disability benefits, you typically become eligible for Medicare after 24 months of disability benefits.

In most cases:

You are automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B
Your Medicare card is mailed to you before coverage begins

Even if enrollment is automatic, you still have choices to make about additional coverage, such as prescription drug plans or Medicare Advantage plans. I can help you review those options and make sure your coverage meets your needs.

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Step 2

Enroll in Part A & B

These two parts together are often called "Original Medicare", and they form the foundation of your Medicare coverage.

Why Parts A and B Are Required

To enroll in:

A Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, or
A Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan

you must have both Part A and Part B in place. Without both, you will not be eligible to enroll in these plans.

How to Enroll

Medicare enrollment in Part A and B is handled by Social Security, not through an insurance company.

You may be automatically enrolled if:

You are already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits

You will need to actively enroll if:

You are not yet receiving Social Security benefits

You can enroll in Parts A and B by:

Applying online at ssa.gov
Calling 1-800-772-1213
Visiting your local Social Security office

When Coverage Starts

Your Medicare start date depends on when you enroll. Enrolling earlier in your eligibility window helps ensure your coverage begins as soon as you need it.

Once you receive your Medicare card showing Part A and Part B effective dates, you’re ready to move on to choosing additional coverage.

Questions About Costs and Deductibles?

Medicare Parts A and B include premiums, deductibles, and cost-sharing amounts that can vary depending on your situation.

👉 For more detailed information about costs, deductibles, and how these parts of Medicare work together, visit the FAQ page on our website, where we address many common Medicare questions in more detail.

Step 3

Choose a Medicare Plan That Fits You

Once you’re enrolled in Part A and Part B, NC Senior Solutions is here to guide you the rest of the way.

We will guide you through:

Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans
Prescription Drug (Part D) plans
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) options

Every plan is different — costs, doctor networks, prescriptions, and benefits vary. Our role is to explain your options clearly so you can make a confident decision.

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