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Turning 65 / New to Medicare
When you first become eligible for Medicare at 65 (or earlier if you've been on disability for 2 years or have ESRD), you have limited time to act. Use this checklist to make sure you don't miss a deadline.
- Confirm your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) dates — usually 3 months before the month you turn 65, the month itself, and 3 months after
- Decide between Original Medicare (Parts A and B) or Medicare Advantage (Part C)
- Consider whether you need Part D (prescription drug coverage) or want to enroll later
- If switching from employer coverage, understand your Special Enrollment Period
- Review and compare Medigap (supplemental insurance) plans if you choose Original Medicare — you have a 6-month window for best rates
- Check whether your current doctors and medications are covered under your chosen plan
- Set up your free Medicare.gov account to track enrollment, view your benefits, and access resources
Learn more about turning 65 and enrollment deadlines
Annual Review (Every Fall)
Every October 15–December 7, the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) opens. Even if you're happy with your plan, it's worth reviewing what's changing for next year.
- Request or download your plan's Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) — sent to you in the fall
- Check for changes: premiums, deductibles, copays, and out-of-pocket maximums
- Recheck your current medications against next year's drug formulary — formulas change annually
- Verify your doctors are still in your plan's network for next year
- Use Medicare's Plan Finder tool to compare available plans in your area
- Make a change before December 7 if you want different coverage starting January 1, or do nothing to stay with your current plan
Learn more about enrollment periods and deadlines
Before You Appeal a Denial
If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. Start here to understand your next steps and meet important deadlines.
- Find your denial notice — it includes your appeal deadline and instructions
- Check which appeal level applies: Level 1 (redetermination), Level 2 (reconsideration), Level 3 (hearing), or higher
- Gather supporting records: invoices, medical records, explanation of benefits (EOB), doctor's statement
- Ask your doctor or provider to write a letter of medical necessity if it strengthens your case
- Note the deadline for filing your appeal and the method (mail, phone, online)
- Keep copies of everything you submit
- If you're unable to appeal yourself, consider help from a SHIP advisor or legal aid in your state
Get step-by-step guidance on how to appeal · Understand your appeal rights · See appeal deadlines and procedures
Caregiver Document Kit
If you're helping someone with their healthcare or benefits, having this information organized in one place saves time and prevents errors. Keep these documents together and know where to find them.
- Insurance cards (Medicare, Medicaid, supplemental insurance, prescription drug plan) — front and back
- Plan name, member ID number, and group number
- List of current doctors: names, phone numbers, specialties, and office addresses
- List of current medications (names, dosages, frequency) and pharmacy contact info
- Copy of any durable power of attorney (POA) or authorized-representative paperwork
- Key online login information (or secure password manager access) for mail, benefits, and health portals
- Upcoming appeal deadlines and claims waiting for decisions
- Emergency contact numbers and after-hours plan support lines
Learn more about supporting a loved one
Applying for Medicaid / Help Paying
If your income is limited, you may qualify for Medicaid, Medicare Savings Programs (MSP), Extra Help with prescriptions, or other assistance. Here's what you need to know before you apply.
- Gather income proof: last 2 months of pay stubs, tax return, or Social Security statement
- Gather household info: number of people in your household, their income, and relationship to you
- Keep current contact information: address, phone, and email
- Determine your state's income and asset limits for Medicaid (limits vary by state and category)
- Apply through your state's Medicaid agency — find your state on medicaid.gov or apply through Healthcare.gov
- Ask your state agency about Medicare Savings Programs (MSP) — they help pay Medicare premiums and cost-sharing
- If eligible for Part D coverage, apply for Extra Help to lower your prescription drug costs
- Follow up: keep your contact information current so the agency can reach you with updates
Learn what help is available for people with low income · Find your state Medicaid office