As your 65th birthday approaches, preparing for Medicare enrollment is one of the most important steps to ensure continuous healthcare coverage. Here’s your actionable checklist to make the transition smooth and stress-free.

1. Mark Your Medicare Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
Your Medicare Initial Enrollment Period spans seven months – beginning three months before your birth month, including your birth month, and extending three months after. For example, if you turn 65 in July, your IEP runs from April through October. Mark these dates on your calendar and set reminders to avoid missing this crucial window.
2. Review Your Current Healthcare Needs
Take inventory of your current healthcare situation:
- List all your prescription medications
- Document your preferred doctors and specialists
- Consider your typical annual healthcare expenses
- Think about additional services you might need, like dental or vision care
- Review any upcoming planned procedures or treatments
3. Understand Your Working Status and Current Coverage
Your employment status affects your Medicare decisions:
- If you’re still working and covered by your employer’s plan, talk to your HR department about how your coverage works with Medicare
- If you’re retiring, confirm your coverage end date and any retiree benefits
- If you’re on COBRA or a marketplace plan, understand how these transition with Medicare
4. Evaluate Your Medicare Coverage Options
Research your options to make an informed decision:
- Original Medicare (Parts A and B) with optional Medigap and Part D
- Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) that combine all benefits – everything Original Medicare Offers plus extras like prescription drugs, dental, vision, hearing, and more.
- Consider factors like travel plans, preferred providers, and prescription drug needs
5. Gather Required Documentation
Have these important documents ready:
- Birth certificate or passport
- Social Security card
- Proof of citizenship or legal residency
- Current health insurance information
6. Schedule a Medicare Consultation
Meet with a licensed Medicare specialist to:
- Review your specific situation and needs
- Understand costs and coverage options
- Get help with enrollment paperwork
- Learn about available resources and support
The Bottom Line
Starting your Medicare journey prepared can help you avoid costly penalties, coverage gaps, and unnecessary stress. Taking these steps before your 65th birthday will position you to make informed decisions about your healthcare coverage.
Remember, Medicare can seem complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. eternalHealth licensed agents are available to help you understand your options and find the right coverage for your needs.
Want to learn more about your Medicare options?
Download our comprehensive Medicare 101 Guide or schedule a free consultation with one of our licensed agents at 1 (833) 810-5377 (TTY: 711).
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eternalHealth is an HMO plan with a Medicare Contract for HMO, HMO-POS and PPO offerings. Enrollment in eternalHealth depends on contract renewal. To enroll in an eternalHealth plan you must meet certain eligibility requirements and reside in the plan’s CMS-approved service area. Benefits and cost sharing may vary by plan.