Helping a parent enroll in Medicare can feel confusing at first, but the process is usually straightforward once you understand the available options and enrollment periods.

If your parent is not automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A, you can assist them in signing up during their Initial Enrollment Period (IEP). Enrollment can be completed online, by phone, or in person through the Social Security Administration.

Below is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.

Automatic Medicare Enrollment at Age 65

When your parent turns 65 years old, they are usually automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A if they already receive benefits from the Social Security Administration or the Railroad Retirement Board.

If this applies, their Medicare card and welcome packet will typically arrive around their 65th birthday.

However, if they are not receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits, they will need to enroll manually.

How to Enroll Your Parents in Medicare Online

The fastest and easiest way to enroll is through the Social Security Administration website.

Medicare consists of several parts, and your parent can choose coverage that best fits their healthcare needs.

Original Medicare

Medicare includes:

• Part A: Covers inpatient hospital care
• Part B: Covers outpatient medical services

Many people with Original Medicare also enroll in Part D, which provides prescription drug coverage for medications taken at home.

During the online application process, you may need:

• Your parent’s Social Security number
• Their Social Security card
• Personal identification details

Having this information ready will make the process quicker and easier.

Medicare Advantage (Part C)

Some people choose Medicare Advantage instead of Original Medicare.

Medicare Advantage plans combine Part A and Part B coverage and are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. Many plans also include:

• Prescription drug coverage
• Dental benefits
• Vision care
• Hearing services
• Fitness programs

Because these plans vary by location, you can use Medicare’s Plan Finder tool to search for options available in your parent’s ZIP code.

Enrolling by Phone or In Person

If online enrollment feels complicated, your parent can enroll by phone or in person.

Phone Enrollment

Call the Social Security Administration at:

800-772-1213

Explain that you would like to enroll your parent in:

• Medicare Part A
• Medicare Part B
• Or both

In-Person Enrollment

You can also visit a local Social Security office with your parent. Use the SSA website to locate the nearest office.

When Can Your Parents Enroll in Medicare?

Medicare has several important enrollment periods.

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

The Initial Enrollment Period lasts 7 months and begins around your parent’s 65th birthday.

It includes:

• 3 months before their birthday month
• Their birthday month
• 3 months after their birthday

Enrolling during this period helps avoid late enrollment penalties.

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period

If your parent already has a Medicare Advantage plan, they can make changes during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period.

Dates: January 1 – March 31 each year.

During this time they can:

• Switch to another Medicare Advantage plan
• Return to Original Medicare

Medicare Annual Open Enrollment Period

The Annual Open Enrollment Period (AEP) runs from:

October 15 – December 7 each year

During this time your parent can:

• Switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage
• Change Medicare Advantage plans
• Add or remove prescription drug coverage (Part D)

Getting Help with Medicare Decisions

If you and your parent need guidance when choosing a plan, the State Health Insurance Assistance Program offers free, unbiased advice.

SHIP counselors can help with:

• Understanding coverage options
• Comparing premiums and benefits
• Estimating out-of-pocket costs

You can call SHIP at 877-839-2675 or use their office locator to find a nearby counseling center.

Key Takeaway

If your parents are not automatically enrolled in Medicare, they can sign up online, by phone, or in person through the Social Security Administration.

You can also explore Medicare Advantage plans using Medicare’s Plan Finder tool to compare available options based on your parent’s location and healthcare needs.

Most importantly, make sure they enroll during their Initial Enrollment Period to avoid late enrollment penalties and ensure they receive coverage as soon as possible.