What is the first step in signing up for Medicare?

The first step is checking whether you'll get Medicare automatically or need to sign up yourself. If you already collect Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits, you'll be enrolled in Part A and Part B automatically when you turn 65. Your card arrives in the mail about three months before your birthday. If you're not drawing those benefits yet, you have to sign up on your own through Social Security. You can do that online at ssa.gov, by phone, or at a local office. Keep the numbers in mind: in 2026, Part B costs $202.90 a month with a $283 deductible. Not sure which situation applies to you? Call us at 855-559-1700 and we'll walk you through it.