Medicare 101
How to Enroll in Medicare
Enrolling in Medicare has two parts: signing up for Original Medicare (Parts A and B) through Social Security, and then choosing your coverage (a Medicare Advantage plan, or a Medigap + Part D plan). If you're already getting Social Security, Parts A and B may start automatically. Otherwise you enroll online, by phone, or in person.
The steps
1) Enroll in Parts A and B (or confirm auto-enrollment). 2) Decide between Original Medicare + Medigap + Part D, or a Medicare Advantage plan. 3) Compare and pick the plan that fits your doctors and drugs. We handle steps 2 and 3 with you at no cost.
Questions, answered
Where do I sign up for Medicare?
Parts A and B are through Social Security (online, phone, or local office). For your plan choice, a local agent like us compares your options and enrolls you — free.
Will I be automatically enrolled in Medicare?
If you're already receiving Social Security benefits when you turn 65, Parts A and B typically start automatically and your card arrives in the mail. If you're not yet collecting Social Security, you need to actively enroll yourself.
How far in advance should I start the enrollment process?
About 3 months before your 65th birthday month — that's when your 7-month Initial Enrollment Period begins, giving you time to compare plans and have coverage ready the day you're eligible.
What documents do I need to enroll?
For Parts A and B, Social Security typically needs basic identity and work-history information they can usually verify electronically. For your plan choice (Medigap or Medicare Advantage), we'll need your provider and prescription list to match you to the right options — we handle the application paperwork with you.
Talk to a local La Crosse area advisor
Free, no pressure — we compare your options for you.