Must I Set Up A Social Security Account To Enroll In Medicare?
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Dear Rusty: I turn 65 this November 2026. Someone told me I need to set up a Social Security account at least 3 months ahead of time before applying for Medicare for the first time. I do not intend to take any Social Security benefits until, perhaps, age 67 or later. Please advise and thank you. Signed: Looking Ahead
Rusty’s answer in brief
No. You can enroll in Medicare by phone without an online account, starting three months before the month you turn 65 (call 1-800-772-1213 for an appointment). A “my Social Security” account at ssa.gov/myaccount makes it easier, though: it lets you enroll online and track your projected benefits. You can sign up for Medicare without starting Social Security.
If you are still working and have creditable coverage from an employer plan with at least 20 participants, you can delay Part B until that coverage ends and then enroll during a Special Enrollment Period with no penalty.
This recording presents the viewpoints of the AMAC Foundation’s Social Security Advisory Staff, trained and accredited under the National Social Security Advisors program of the National Social Security Association, LLC (NSSA). NSSA and the AMAC Foundation are not affiliated with or endorsed by the United States Government, the Social Security Administration, or any other state government. To request additional information, contact our Advisory Staff at 888-750-2622, or email us at SSAdvisor@AmacFoundation.org.