How to Apply for Medicare

New to Medicare · Applying

How to apply for Medicare.

Applying is simpler than most people expect — but the timing and the forms matter. Here’s exactly how to do it, the official forms to download, and how to avoid the mistakes that cost people money.

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Before You Start

Do you even need to apply?

Here’s the part that surprises people: some are enrolled automatically, and some have to sign up themselves. If you’re already receiving Social Security benefits before 65, you’re usually enrolled in Parts A and B automatically — your card just arrives in the mail. If you’re not yet drawing Social Security, you’ll need to apply on your own.

And if you’re still working past 65 with employer coverage, you may want to delay Part B — but only if your coverage qualifies, and only with the right paperwork, or you risk a lifelong penalty. That’s where the forms below come in.

Not sure if you’re even eligible yet? Start with Medicare Eligibility, or get the full picture in Medicare 101.
The Process

Applying, in three steps.

However you apply, it comes down to this.

1

Confirm your timing

Know your enrollment window so you don’t miss it or pay a penalty. Most people use their 7-month Initial Enrollment Period around their 65th birthday.

2

Submit your application

Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, in person, or by mailing the official forms below. If you delayed Part B for employer coverage, you’ll include proof.

3

Choose your coverage

Once you have Parts A and B, add a Supplement + drug plan, or a Medicare Advantage plan. This is where a licensed advisor saves you time and money — free.

Interactive · Find Your Path

Which way should you apply?

Pick the situation that fits — you’ll see the right path. A licensed advisor can confirm your details for free.

Which best describes you right now?
Choose one to see how you should apply.
You’re likely enrolled automatically.

Because you’re already receiving Social Security, you’ll usually be auto-enrolled in Parts A and B — your Medicare card arrives about 3 months before your 65th birthday. No form needed for that part. Your next move is choosing the coverage that goes with it.

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You’ll apply yourself — it’s easy.

You sign up during your 7-month Initial Enrollment Period. The fastest way is online at SSA.gov, but you can also use the CMS-40B form below. Enroll on time to avoid a lifelong Part B penalty. We’ll help you get the timing and coverage right.

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You may be able to delay — carefully.

If your employer coverage qualifies as creditable, you can often delay Part B without penalty and enroll later during a Special Enrollment Period. When you do, you’ll need the CMS-L564 (employer proof) plus the CMS-40B. Both are below. Get this timing wrong and it costs you — let’s make sure it’s right.

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Official Downloads

The official Medicare enrollment forms.

These are the current official forms from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Download, complete, and submit to your local Social Security office — or let us walk you through them.

Enroll in Part B

Application for Part B

Form CMS-40B

Use this if you already have Part A and want to sign up for Part B (medical insurance). This is the main enrollment form for most people applying on their own.

Download CMS-40B (PDF)
Employer Proof

Request for Employment Info

Form CMS-L564

Use this with the CMS-40B if you delayed Part B because you had employer coverage. Your employer completes Section B to prove creditable coverage for a penalty-free Special Enrollment Period.

Download CMS-L564 (PDF)

These links open the official CMS.gov PDF forms and are provided for your convenience. Submit completed forms to your local Social Security office (find one at SSA.gov/locator) or apply online at SSA.gov. Not sure which forms apply to you? A licensed May River advisor will walk you through every step — at no cost.

Don’t want to do the paperwork alone?

We’ll walk you through the forms, confirm your timing, and make sure you enroll without a costly mistake — free, and with no pressure.

Book a Free Appointment Call (843) 227-6725
Keep Going

After you apply.

Once your Parts A and B are set, here’s what comes next.

Timing

Enrollment Periods

Make sure you’re applying in the right window — and never miss the one that matters most.

See the windows
Coverage

How to Choose a Plan

Supplement or Advantage? Here’s how to pick the coverage that actually fits you.

Choose a plan
Budgeting

Medicare Costs

Know the premiums, deductibles, and IRMAA before your coverage begins.

Understand costs
Quick Answers

Questions about applying.

Do I have to apply for Medicare, or is it automatic?
If you’re already receiving Social Security before 65, you’re usually enrolled automatically in Parts A and B. If you’re not drawing Social Security yet, you need to apply yourself — online at SSA.gov, by phone, in person, or with the CMS-40B form.
What is the CMS-40B form?
CMS-40B is the official Application for Enrollment in Medicare Part B. You use it if you already have Part A and want to add Part B. You can download it above and submit it to your local Social Security office.
What is the CMS-L564 form and do I need it?
CMS-L564 (Request for Employment Information) proves you had employer health coverage. You need it only if you delayed Part B because you were working, so you can enroll during a Special Enrollment Period without a penalty. Your employer completes part of it.
When should I apply for Medicare?
Most people apply during their Initial Enrollment Period — the 7 months around their 65th birthday (3 months before, your birthday month, and 3 months after). Applying in the first 3 months means coverage can start the month you turn 65. See our Enrollment Periods guide.
What happens if I apply late?
Missing your window can mean a late enrollment penalty added to your premium for life, plus a possible gap in coverage. This is exactly why timing matters — and why it’s worth having a licensed advisor confirm your dates for free before you file.

Let’s make sure you apply the right way, at the right time.

A licensed May River advisor walks you through the forms and timing, then helps you choose your coverage — free, and with no pressure.

(843) 227-6725
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