If you sign up for Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and/or Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) during the first 3 months of your Initial Enrollment Period, your coverage starts the first day of your birthday month, unless your birthday is on the first day of the month.
Example
Mr. Green's 65th birthday is July 20, 2012. If he signs up for Medicare in April, May, or June, his coverage will start on July 1, 2012.
If your birthday is on the first day of the month, your coverage starts the first day of the prior month.
Example
Mr. Kim's 65th birthday is July 1, 2012. If he signs up for Medicare in March, April, or May, his coverage will start on June 1, 2012.
When will your Medicare coverage start?
| If you sign up for Part A/ B in this month: | Your coverage starts: |
|---|---|
| The month you turn 65 | 1 month after you sign up |
| 1 month after you turn 65 | 2 months after you sign up |
| 2 months after you turn 65 | 3 months after you sign up |
| 3 months after you turn 65 | 3 months after you sign up |
| During the January 1–March 31 General Enrollment Period | July 1 |
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