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Medicare

Medicare is the federal government health insurance program for people age 65 and older and younger people living with certain illnesses or disabilities. Here’s how to sign up and choose the best plan for you.

Medicare 101

What is Medicare?

Learn the basics of Medicare

Eligibility

When you qualify

Calculate your eligibility date

Enrollment

How to sign up

How to enroll in Medicare

Cost

What you'll pay

Premiums and deductibles

Benefits

What's covered

Medicare benefit options

Enrolling in Medicare

For most people, Medicare starts when you turn 65. You should sign up before your 65th birthday during your initial enrollment period.

Parts of Medicare

Medicare consists of four parts — Part A, Part B, Part C (Medicare Advantage) and Part D. Each part offers specific coverage and varies in cost.

Medicare Part A is the hospital insurance portion of Medicare. For most people, it’s premium-free.
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Medicare Part B covers medically necessary outpatient services and preventive care for people 65+ and those under 65 with a disability or specific health condition.
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Medicare Advantage, or Medicare Part C, is a private insurance alternative to traditional Medicare.
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Medicare Part D helps you cover the costs of your prescriptions.
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Choosing your coverage

There are two ways to get Medicare coverage: Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage. If you choose Original Medicare, experts recommend buying a Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) plan and a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan.

Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage: How to Choose
Medigap vs. Medicare Advantage: What’s the Difference?

Shopping for Medicare? We have you covered.

MEDICARE SUPPLEMENT, or Medigap, is private health insurance that covers “gaps” in traditional Medicare coverage. Compare options from our Medigap roundup.

Best for Medigap plan options

Best for premium discounts

MEDICARE PART D covers outpatient prescription drugs for people on Medicare. Compare options from our Medicare Part D roundup.

Best for member experience

Best for $0 premiums

MEDICARE ADVANTAGE is an alternative to traditional Medicare offered by private health insurers. Compare options from our Medicare Advantage roundup.

Best for size of network

Best for low-cost plans

Star ratings from CMS and on a 5-★ scale.

Changing Medicare plans

There are different enrollment periods during the year that allow you to join or switch Medicare plans.

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