What it is
A turning 65 Medicare checklist is a simple list of steps to think through as you become eligible for Medicare. It usually covers timing, which parts of Medicare you need, how you will cover costs that Medicare does not pay, and how you will get prescription drug coverage.
Original Medicare has Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical). It does not pay everything. Many people look at ways to help with the gaps, such as Medigap plans, which are sold by private insurers, or a Medicare Advantage plan, which is an alternative way to receive Medicare benefits.
Medigap plans are standardized by letter. Only Plans A, B, D, G, K, L, M and N (and high-deductible Plan G) are sold to people newly eligible for Medicare. Plans C and F (and high-deductible F) are available only to people who became eligible before January 1, 2020. Plans E, H, I and J were discontinued and are not sold today. Massachusetts, Minnesota and Wisconsin standardize Medigap differently.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Many people start by finding out when their own enrollment window begins and how it connects to their birthday month. Some are already getting Social Security benefits and may be enrolled in parts of Medicare automatically. Others must sign up on their own. Official details are at Medicare.gov.
Next, people often decide between Original Medicare with a Medigap plan and a Part D drug plan, or a Medicare Advantage plan. Medigap plans are known for letting you see any provider nationwide who accepts Medicare, with no network or referrals, and for more predictable cost-sharing. Their trade-offs are generally higher monthly premiums, a separate Part D plan for drugs, and no routine dental, vision or hearing.
Medicare Advantage plans are often valued for lower premiums, an annual out-of-pocket maximum, extra benefits and drug coverage in many plans. Their trade-offs can include networks, prior authorization and copays. Neither approach is right for everyone. Many people also review whether they have employer coverage, which can change the timing of their choices.
How the right licensed agent may help
A Medigap agent is a licensed professional who may help you put your checklist in order. They can explain how enrollment timing works in your state and how it may affect your options. They are not a government employee, and what they can offer depends on the carriers they work with.
A first conversation is usually relaxed. You may be asked about your birthday, whether you or a spouse still work, your doctors, your prescriptions, and how you feel about monthly costs versus surprise costs. It helps to bring your Medicare card details if you have them and a list of your medications.
Good questions to ask include: When does my window start and end? Could waiting affect my choices or require medical underwriting? How do Medigap plans differ from Medicare Advantage for the doctors I use? Which rules are specific to my state? You can also confirm answers with Medicare.gov or your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for more information.
The bigger picture
Turning 65 can bring excitement, and also stress. Health coverage choices touch your finances, your routines and your peace of mind. Working through a checklist one step at a time can make the decision feel more manageable and less rushed.
Think about what helps you feel secure: seeing the doctors you trust, knowing what to expect with costs, or having extra benefits. Taking care of your overall wellbeing is part of the process. If you also want help finding care providers, Providers.plus is one place to explore.
Keep in mind
- Enrollment rules, open enrollment, guaranteed issue and under-65 access vary by state and change over time, so confirm current rules with Medicare.gov, your SHIP, or a licensed agent.
- Missing your window may limit your choices or lead to medical underwriting for Medigap plans, depending on your situation and state.
- This page is insurance education only, not insurance, legal, tax or medical advice, and it does not guarantee acceptance, savings or that any plan is best.
- 1-800-MEDIGAP is not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program.
Take the next step
- Talk with a Medigap agent ↗Jeff Cline on contacts.plus — a person, not a call center.
Not sure where to start? Answer a few gentle questions and choose who you’d like to hear from.
Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for more information
Frequently asked questions
What should be on a turning 65 Medicare checklist?
A turning 65 Medicare checklist usually includes your enrollment window, whether you have Social Security or employer coverage, your choice between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, any Medigap plans, and drug coverage. It also helps to list your doctors and prescriptions. Confirm details with Medicare.gov.
When should I start my Medicare checklist?
Starting a few months before you turn 65 is common, so you have time to compare options. Your exact window depends on your birthday and your situation. Check Medicare.gov, your SHIP, or a licensed agent for current timing.
Do I sign up for Medicare automatically at 65?
It depends. Some people receiving Social Security benefits are enrolled in Parts A and B automatically, while others must sign up. Medicare.gov and Social Security can confirm what applies to you.
Do I need a Medigap plan when I turn 65?
No, Medigap plans are optional. They are one way some people choose to help with costs Original Medicare does not pay. Others prefer Medicare Advantage, so it helps to compare both fairly.
Which Medigap plans can I buy if I am new to Medicare?
People newly eligible can buy Plans A, B, D, G, K, L, M and N, plus high-deductible Plan G. Plans C and F are only for those eligible before January 1, 2020. Plans E, H, I and J are discontinued. Massachusetts, Minnesota and Wisconsin differ.
How can a Medigap agent help when I turn 65?
A Medigap agent may help explain your timing, the plan letters, and how Medigap compares with Medicare Advantage. They cannot promise a result. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for more information.
Educational resource. 1-800-MEDIGAP shares general information and connects people with independent licensed agents. It is not professional advice. Talk with a qualified professional about your own situation.