Get started with Medicare

Getting Medicare is a major milestone. Here’s where you can get the information you need, no matter where you are in your Medicare journey. Before you choose a path below, check out these 5 important facts:

1. Some people get Medicare automatically, and some have to sign up. You may have to sign up if you’re 65 (or almost 65) and not getting Social Security.

2. There are certain times of the year when you can sign up or change how you get your coverage.

3. If you sign up for Medicare Part B when you’re first eligible, you can avoid a penalty.

4. You can choose how you get your Medicare coverage.

5. You may be able to get help with your Medicare costs.

Sign up/change plans

Get more information from Medicare.gov

What Medicare Covers (Parts A & B) Find out if your test, item or service is covered. Medicare coverage for many tests, items, and services depends on where you live. This list includes tests, items, and services (covered and non-covered) if coverage is the same no matter where you live. Is my test, item, or service covered?

Drug coverage(Part D) Find out how to get Medicare prescription drug coverage. Learn about Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (Part D), Medicare Advantage Plans, more. Get the right Medicare drug plan for you. How to get prescription drug coverage

Supplements & other insurance Learn how benefits are coordinated when you have Medicare and other health insurance. How Medicare works with other insurance

Your Medicare costs Learn about programs that may help you save money on medical and drug costs. Get help paying costs

Claims & appeals Find out how to file a complaint (also called a "grievance") if you have a concern about the quality of care or other services you get from a Medicare provider. Contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for local, personalized Medicare counseling. File a complaint (grievance)

Manage your health Access your personalized Medicare information with our free, secure online service. Login to MyMedicare.gov

Forms, help, & resources Hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, medical item suppliers, health care providers, health and drug plans, dialysis facilities. Find doctors, hospitals, & other providers