f you already receive Social Security benefits when you reach 65, you'll automatically get enrolled in Medicare. If you haven't started Social Security yet, but you're approaching your 65th birthday, now's the time to apply for Medicare.
You can apply online or over the phone, although you'll need to pay attention to specific enrollment deadlines and plan details to make sure you've gotten your benefits set up correctly. The following guidelines will help you figure out exactly when and how you should apply for Medicare regardless of the details of your specific situation.
Medicare Part A covers hospital stays, while Part B covers physician fees. Medicare Part C, called Medicare Advantage, offers options for extra coverage that includes vision, dental, and wellness care. You can only apply for this if you're already enrolled in both Part A and Part B. Medicare Part D covers prescription medications.