As soon as you become eligible for Medicare, you can join Part B. Just sign up during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP).
You can also join Medicare Part B later on, but only at certain times of the year, unless you qualify for an exception, such as working past age 65 and continuing to have coverage from your employer or union group.
View a Road Map for your specific situation to help guide you through enrollment.
How do you sign up for Medicare Part B?
- If you’re receiving Social Security benefits when you turn 65 or otherwise become eligible for Medicare, you’ll automatically be enrolled in Original Medicare (Parts A and B). If you don’t want to join Part B, you can refuse Part B coverage by going to your local Social Security office.
- If you’re not receiving Social Security benefits, you can sign up for Part B at your local Social Security office
Important: You may pay a penalty if you don’t sign up for Part B when you are first eligible. Your cost for Part B may go up 10% for each full 12-month period that you could have had Part B but didn’t sign up for it. You’ll pay that penalty for as long as you’re enrolled in Part B.
Can Medicare Part B refuse to cover you or delay your coverage?
Assuming you are eligible for Medicare, you can’t be refused Part B because of your medical history or a pre-existing illness. The time when your coverage begins depends on when you sign up. If you sign up for Medicare Part B promptly at the start of your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP), your coverage will begin on the first day of the month you become eligible for Medicare.
How does Medicare Part B renewal work?
Your Medicare Part B coverage renews automatically from year to year. As long as you pay the Medicare Part B premium, you don't have to do anything.