How To Buy Medicare Part A May 2026

You can apply during several specific windows to avoid late enrollment penalties.

Medicare enrollment is handled by the , not the Medicare website directly. When can I sign up for Medicare?

A 7-month window starting 3 months before the month you turn 65, including your birth month, and ending 3 months after. how to buy medicare part a

Before you "buy," verify if you are already entitled to premium-free coverage.

Buying Medicare Part A involves determining if you qualify for premium-free coverage or if you must purchase it by paying a monthly premium. Most people receive Part A automatically at age 65 without a premium because they or their spouse paid Medicare taxes while working. 1. Determine Your Eligibility and Cost You can apply during several specific windows to

If you miss your IEP, you can sign up between January 1 and March 31 each year. Coverage typically starts the month after you sign up.

If you are still working and covered by an employer's group health plan, you can wait to sign up without penalty until 8 months after the employment or coverage ends. 3. How to Apply A 7-month window starting 3 months before the

If you buy Part A, you must also enroll in and pay for Medicare Part B . 2. When to Enroll