If you are already receiving Social Security benefits--

Most people qualify for Medicare when they turn 65. You qualify for it if you're eligible for Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits. Or you may qualify on a spouse's (including divorced spouse's) record. Others qualify because they are government employees not covered by Social Security who paid the Medicare part of the Social Security tax. In addition, if you've been getting Social Security disability benefits for 24 months or get Social Security disability benefits and have amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's disease), you'll qualify for Medicare. You may also qualify if you have permanent kidney failure and you receive maintenance dialysis or a kidney transplant.

If you are already getting Social Security benefits, you'll automatically be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B. However, because you must pay a premium for Part B coverage, you have the option of turning it down. You will be contacted by mail a few months before you become eligible and given all the information you need. (Note: Residents of Puerto Rico or foreign countries will not receive Part B automatically. They must elect this benefit.)

If you are not already receiving Social Security benefits--

If you are not already getting benefits when you turn 65, you should call 1-800-772-1213 three months prior to your birthday so we can help you decide if you should sign up for Medicare. You should do this even if you plan to continue working or do not think you have enough work credit under Social Security, because Medicare enrollment period rules are very strict. If you would like to file for Medicare only, you can apply by calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213. People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call our "TTY" number, 1-800-325-0778, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on business days. A Social Security representatives can make an appointment for you - by phone or in person - at any convenient Social Security office. When you apply for Medicare, Social Security often also takes an application for monthly benefits. If you want to apply, Social Security will suggest that you apply for retirement and Medicare benefits online.