Your Initial Enrollment Period for Medicare begins 3 months before you turn age 65, includes the month of your birthday, and continues for 3 months after you turn 65. During this time, if you are not automatically enrolled, contact the Social Security Administration to sign up for Part A and B. You should also enroll in Part D during your Initial Enrollment Period.

A Medicare Advantage Plan, also known as Part C, is a Medicare-approved health plan offered by a private company that coordinates with Medicare to provide your Part A, Part B, and often Part D health benefits.

Your Part D coverage helps cover the cost of prescription drugs. You should enroll in Part D as soon as you are eligible for Part A and B. If you choose not to enroll in Part D, you will incur late enrollment fees that are added to your monthly premium forever.

Those who do not want a Medicare Advantage Plan opt to have Original Medicare instead, which includes your Part A and Part B coverage only. You'll need to supplement your Original Medicare with a Medigap Plan and Prescription Drug Plan (Part D) to ensure full comprehensive health coverage.