How to Apply for Medicare in 2026: A Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for Medicare in 2026 takes seven clear steps, starting with your seven-month Initial Enrollment Period — the three months before your 65th birthday, your birthday month, and the three months after. This guide walks you through checking whether you're automatically enrolled, signing up online at SSA.gov, choosing between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, adding drug coverage, and confirming everything is in place — so you avoid late penalties and gaps in coverage.








