If a parent is not enrolled automatically in Medicare Part A, you can assist them with signing up during their Initial Enrollment Period (IEP). Enrollment options are handled through the Social Security Administration (SSA), with online registration being the quickest method.

When a parent reaches age 65, they are usually enrolled automatically in Medicare Part A if they already receive benefits from the SSA or the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). In these cases, their Medicare card and welcome packet typically arrive around their 65th birthday.

If your parent does not receive SSA or RRB benefits and is not automatically enrolled, you can help them sign up in several ways. The fastest option is completing the process online through the SSA website.

How to Enroll Your Parents in Medicare Online

Medicare is divided into multiple parts, allowing your parent to choose coverage that best fits their healthcare needs.

Original Medicare includes:

• Part A, which covers inpatient hospital care

• Part B, which covers outpatient medical services

Those enrolled in Original Medicare may also add a separate Part D prescription drug plan to cover medications taken at home.

The SSA website provides step-by-step instructions for enrolling in Original Medicare. It’s helpful to have your parent’s Social Security card or Social Security number available, as this information is required during enrollment.

Understanding Medicare Advantage (Part C)

Medicare Advantage plans combine the benefits of Original Medicare into a single plan. Many also include prescription drug coverage and may offer extra benefits such as vision, dental, or hearing services.

These plans are offered by private insurance companies, so options vary by location and insurer.

If your parents are considering Medicare Advantage, Medicare’s plan finder tool can help you review and compare plans available in their ZIP code.

Enrolling by Phone or In Person

Some families prefer enrolling in person. You can accompany your parents to a local Social Security office, which you can locate using the SSA website.

To enroll by phone, call 800-772-1213 and explain that you would like to enroll your parents in Medicare Part A, Part B, or both.

Medicare Enrollment Timing

Medicare has several enrollment periods, and enrolling on time is important to avoid late enrollment penalties.

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

The IEP lasts seven months and is your parents’ first opportunity to enroll when they turn 65. It begins three months before their birthday month, continues through the birthday month, and ends three months afterward.

Enrolling during this window helps ensure uninterrupted coverage and prevents penalties.

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA OEP)

If your parents already have a Medicare Advantage plan, they can make changes between January 1 and March 31 each year. During this period, they may:

• Switch to another Medicare Advantage plan

• Return to Original Medicare

Open Enrollment Period (OEP)

Also known as the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), this runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. During this time, your parents can:

• Move from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage

• Switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare

• Change Medicare Advantage plans

• Add or drop a Part D prescription drug plan

Where to Get Medicare Enrollment Help

If you or your parents want guidance on selecting a plan or understanding Medicare options, the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) offers free, unbiased support.

SHIP counselors can help explain coverage choices, premiums, and out-of-pocket costs. Assistance is available by phone or in person. You can call SHIP at 877-839-2675 or use the SHIP office locator to find a local office.

Summary

If your parents are not enrolled automatically in Original Medicare, you can help them sign up online, by phone, or in person through Social Security. If they are interested in Medicare Advantage, plans can be searched and compared on Medicare’s website using their ZIP code and coverage preferences.

Enrolling your parents as soon as they are eligible can help them avoid late enrollment penalties and ensure timely access to healthcare coverage.