To be eligible for a Medicare Advantage plan, you’ll need to be entitled to Original Medicare.

How you will sign up for both Parts A & B depends on your situation.

If you’re collecting Social Security benefits, you’ll automatically receive your entitlement letter 3 months before your birthday month (4 months before if your birthday is on the 1st of the month). Coverage typically begins on the 1st day of your birthday month.

If you aren’t collecting Social Security benefits, you’ll need to sign up on your own by contacting Social Security directly. Be sure to begin your Medicare Part B application 3 months before you or your spouse retire or move off an employer plan. This will help you avoid gaps in your future coverage.

You can sign up for Medicare Part A and/or Medicare Part B in the following ways:

After you’ve applied for Medicare Parts A & B, you’ll receive your entitlement letter. Then you will receive your Medicare card within 4 to 6 weeks. If you haven’t received your card in that time:

• Sign in to your mymedicare.gov account, to view your Medicare information online.
  
• If that doesn’t work, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778).
  

Railroad employees:
If you’re entitled to Railroad Benefits, your process may be different. Contact the Railroad Board at 1-800-772-5772 (TTY 1-312-751-4701).