In the months before turning age 65.

Set up an online account at Social Security

• Note that you need an online account at Social Security to enroll in Medicare Part B. You do not have to retire or take Social Security income payments to have this account. If you have not already done so, please register for your Social Security Online Account on this link: ssa.gov/myaccount/create.html
• This account provides access to valuable information for you. For example, there is an annual report with estimated Social Security retirement payments at various ages. We can help you if needed.

Sign Up for Medicare Part B

• Two or three months before your 65th birthday month people should register for Medicare Part B. You are automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A.
• Your Medicare coverage will be effective on the first day of your birthday month. For example, if your birthday is June 22, your Medicare coverage will begin on June 1.
  • Link to the Medicare overview page: Medicare.gov/sign-up-change-plans/get-started-with-medicare
  • Link to the actual Part B sign up page: secure.ssa.gov/iClaim/rib
• Another option is to use a local Social Security Administration office for Medicare Part B Enrollment. Find the phone and address of the nearest office to you using this link: secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp. If going in person it is best to set an appointment.

Please mark down your unique Medicare Beneficiary ID Number or MBI to use for enrollment to a Supplement or Advantage Plan.
"The MBI has letters and numbers. Here’s an example: 1EG4-TE5-MK73".
Your MBI will be mailed to you in an official government envelope in about two weeks.