How to Apply for Medicare Online
If you’re turning 65 or otherwise becoming eligible for Medicare, you can apply directly and securely through the Social Security Administration (SSA) — no office visit required for most people.
Apply for Medicare Online Through Social Security
Use the SSA’s official online application to sign up for Medicare Part A and/or Part B: Apply Online at SSA.gov
For an overview of all the ways to sign up (online, by phone, or in person), see the SSA’s official Sign Up for Medicare page.
When to Apply
Most people should apply during their Initial Enrollment Period — a 7-month window that starts 3 months before the month you turn 65, includes your birthday month, and ends 3 months after (Medicare.gov). Applying late can result in a permanent late-enrollment penalty on your Part B premium, so it’s best not to wait.
If you already missed your Initial Enrollment Period, the General Enrollment Period runs January 1 – March 31 each year, with coverage typically starting the month after you sign up.
What Medicare Costs in 2026
- Part B standard monthly premium: $202.90 (up from $185.00 in 2025) — CMS
- Part B annual deductible: $283 — CMS
- Part A: Usually premium-free if you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years of work — CMS
- Higher-income beneficiaries pay an Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA), which for 2026 can raise the Part B premium to between $284.10 and $689.90 depending on income — SSA
How to Apply — Step by Step
- Gather your Social Security number, birth certificate or proof of age, and (if applicable) proof of current health coverage.
- Visit the SSA online application and follow the prompts.
- Submit your application and watch for confirmation from Social Security, typically within a few weeks.
Need Help Deciding on a Plan?
Signing up for Medicare is just the first step — you’ll also want to decide between Original Medicare, a Medicare Advantage plan, and whether you need a Part D drug plan or Medigap policy. Contact Affordable Care Agents for a free consultation — we’ll help you compare your options with no obligation.
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