Turning 65?
Here's Your Medicare Roadmap
Medicare doesn't have to be overwhelming. I'll walk you through exactly what to do, when, and why — so you enroll on time, avoid lifelong penalties, and lock in the right coverage while the door is open.
Independent advisor · Free & no pressure · Licensed coast to coast in 14 states
The One Window You Can't Get Back
When you're first 65 and enrolled in Medicare Part B, you get a one-time 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period. During it, you can buy any Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan in your state with no health questions — you can't be turned down or charged more for a pre-existing condition.
Once that window closes, most states let insurers ask about your health and decline you or raise your price. It's the best access and pricing you'll ever have on a Medigap plan — so it's worth getting right the first time.
Your Medicare Enrollment Timeline
Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is a 7-month window centered around the month you turn 65.
3 Months Before You Turn 65
Your enrollment window opens. This is the best time to start comparing plans and understanding your options.
The Month You Turn 65
Your IEP is in full swing. Enroll in Part A and Part B if you don't have creditable employer coverage — and your 6-month Medigap window begins.
3 Months After You Turn 65
Last chance to enroll without lifelong late penalties. Don't wait — coverage gaps can be costly.
Key Decisions When Turning 65
A handful of choices shape your costs and freedom for years. Here's where I help you think it through.
How You’ll Get Your Coverage
Original Medicare paired with a Medigap plan lets you see any doctor who accepts Medicare, with predictable costs and no networks or referrals. I’ll explain how it compares to the alternatives so you can choose with eyes open.
Whether to Add a Medigap Plan
Medicare Supplement plans fill the gaps Original Medicare leaves behind. The best time to buy is during your 6-month open enrollment, while coverage is guaranteed.
Part D Prescription Coverage
With Original Medicare you’ll usually want a standalone Part D drug plan. I’ll help you match it to the prescriptions you actually take.
Employer Coverage Coordination
Still working at 65? I’ll help you figure out how your employer plan works with Medicare so you don’t double-pay or trigger a penalty.
Weighing Original Medicare + Medigap against a Medicare Advantage plan? See an honest, side-by-side comparison →
Coverage Medicare Leaves Out
Two everyday gaps catch new enrollees by surprise. Both are easy and affordable to close.
Dental, Vision & Hearing
Original Medicare doesn't cover routine cleanings, glasses, or hearing aids. A standalone DVH plan does — and you can use your own providers.
Explore DVH coverage →Cancer Coverage
A cancer plan pays a cash benefit on a covered diagnosis — money you can use for bills, travel, or time off, on top of your other coverage.
Explore cancer coverage →Common Mistakes to Avoid
Missing your Initial Enrollment Period and paying lifetime late penalties
Letting your 6-month Medigap window close and losing guaranteed-issue rights
Not reviewing Part D plans annually — formularies and costs change every year
Assuming your employer coverage automatically coordinates with Medicare
Overlooking dental, vision, hearing, and cancer gaps until a bill arrives
Turning 65: Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start the Medicare process if I’m turning 65?
About three months before the month you turn 65. That is when your 7-month Initial Enrollment Period opens. Starting early gives you time to compare options and enroll on time so you never face a late-enrollment penalty.
What is the Medigap open enrollment window, and why does it matter so much?
When you are first 65 and enrolled in Medicare Part B, you get a one-time 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period. During it you can buy any Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan offered in your state with no health questions — you cannot be turned down or charged more for pre-existing conditions. After that window closes, in most states insurers can require medical underwriting and may decline you or raise your price. It is the best access and pricing you will ever have, which is why I help people lock it in on time.
Do I have to enroll at 65 if I’m still working?
Not always. If you have creditable coverage through a current employer, you may be able to delay Part B without penalty and get a Special Enrollment Period later. The details matter, and getting them wrong is costly — a quick free call confirms exactly what applies to your situation.
Does Medicare cover dental, vision, and hearing?
Original Medicare generally does not cover routine dental, vision, or hearing — things like cleanings, glasses, and hearing aids come out of pocket. A standalone Dental, Vision & Hearing (DVH) plan closes that gap, and you can pair it with any Medicare coverage.
What does it cost to work with you?
Nothing. As a licensed independent advisor, I am paid by the insurance carriers, so your premium is the same whether you enroll through me or on your own — except you also get personalized guidance and year-round support at no extra cost.
What states do you serve?
I'm licensed coast to coast in 14 states and adding more. Don't see your state? I'm adding states all the time and can often get licensed in yours within days — reach out and I'll let you know.
Don't Navigate Medicare Alone
As a licensed, independent advisor, I help you understand every option — at no cost to you. Let's make sure you enroll on time and are covered correctly from day one.
Licensed coast to coast in 14 states — and growing