I'm retiring after 65. How do I sign up for Medicare?

When your job or your employer coverage ends, whichever comes first, you generally have 8 months to sign up for Part B without a late penalty. You'll usually submit two forms: CMS-40B (the Part B application) and CMS-L564 (completed by your employer to show you had group coverage). These can be submitted online through Social Security, by mail, or in person. Once your Part B start date is set, you'll have a shorter window, generally 2 months, to choose a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan, or you can add a Medicare Supplement. COBRA doesn't count as coverage from current work, so it doesn't extend the 8-month window.[LIZ REVIEW]

Whether you already have Part A, whether you have an HSA, whether your employer can complete the CMS-L564 easily, and whether you want Medicare Advantage or a Supplement.

1. 1
   Pick your target Medicare start date (the first of the month after coverage ends).
2. 2
   Ask HR to complete form CMS-L564.
3. 3
   Apply for Part B.See the Retiring After 65 guide
4. 4
   Choose your coverage path with us.Get enrollment help

• Retiring After 65When should I stop contributing to my HSA before starting Medicare?
• Advantage & SupplementWhat's the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement?
• Enrollment HelpCan someone help me apply for Medicare?

Every situation is a little different. Call us at 719-358-6696 — we actually answer the phone — or book a no-cost appointment.