🧭 Annual Enrollment is open through Dec 7 · (208) 806-8887
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Turning 65 · New to Medicare

Every great adventure needs a trail map.

Turning 65 shouldn't feel like getting lost in the woods. Here's the plain-English map: when to sign up, which path to take, and the pitfalls that cost people money. When you're ready for a guide, Chris is a phone call away.

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🧭 Where are you on the trail?

Enter your birthday to see your sign-up window.

The trail to 65

The big milestones, in order. Miss one and it can follow you for life, so this is the part worth getting right.

64

Base camp: about age 64

Start learning the terrain. Make a list of your doctors and prescriptions, and figure out whether you'll still be working (and covered by an employer) at 65.

−3
mo

Your window opens: 3 months before your 65th birthday month

Your Initial Enrollment Period is 7 months long: 3 months before, your birthday month, and 3 months after. Signing up early means coverage starts on time.

65

Summit: your 65th birthday month

Enroll in Part A and Part B through Social Security, then choose your path (see the fork in the road below).

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mo

The window closes: 3 months after your birthday month

Missing it without other qualifying coverage can mean late penalties and waiting for the next General Enrollment Period.

Every
fall

Annual check-up: October 15 – December 7

Plans change every year. Annual Enrollment is your chance to review and switch for the coming year.

The fork in the road

Everyone starts with Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical). Then you pick one of two main paths. Neither is "right" for everyone — it depends on your health, budget, doctors, and travel plans.

Path 1

Original Medicare + extras

  • Parts A & B from the government
  • A Medicare Supplement (Medigap) to cover gaps
  • A separate Part D drug plan
Often a fit for: people who want freedom to see any doctor who takes Medicare, nationwide.
Path 2

Medicare Advantage

  • A private plan that bundles A & B
  • Usually includes drug coverage
  • Often has extras like dental, vision, or hearing
Often a fit for: people comfortable with a network who want lower monthly premiums.

Not sure which way to go? That's literally what the free call is for. (208) 806-8887

Trail hazards ⚠️

The common pitfalls that trip people up — and can cost real money.

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Late enrollment penalties

Sign up late for Part B or Part D without other qualifying coverage, and you may pay a penalty for as long as you have that coverage.

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Working past 65

Whether you can delay Part B depends on your employer's size and coverage. Get this one checked — it's the most common mix-up.

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HSA contributions

Once you enroll in Medicare, you generally have to stop contributing to a Health Savings Account. Timing matters here.

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The Medigap window

Your best chance to buy a Medicare Supplement without health questions is a one-time window when you first get Part B. Miss it and approval isn't guaranteed.

Your packing list

Have these handy when we talk and we'll get through it fast.


📞 I'm packed — let's talk
Chris Ingram, licensed Medicare agent in Boise, Idaho

Meet your guide: Chris Ingram

I've been helping people with insurance and benefits since 2012, right here in the Treasure Valley. I'm an independent agent, so I work with more than one insurance company — and I'm also a pretty serious road-tripper, so I get why where you travel matters as much as where you live.

My help costs you nothing. You talk to me, not a call center, and I'm still around when you have questions next year.

Licensed in Idaho, Washington, Oregon, Montana, Utah, Wyoming, California, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, and Arkansas.

Questions from the trail

Do I get signed up for Medicare automatically?

Only if you're already collecting Social Security when you turn 65. If you're not, you'll need to sign up yourself — that's where a lot of people slip.

Does it cost anything to work with you?

No. Agents are paid by the insurance companies, and your premium is the same whether you enroll through me or on your own.

I travel a lot. Does that change which path I should take?

It can. Networks, out-of-area coverage, and travel benefits vary a lot between plans. Tell me where you go and for how long, and we'll factor it in.

Can I change my mind later?

Often, yes — Annual Enrollment each fall lets you switch plans. Some switches, like getting a Medigap plan later, may involve health questions. That's why the first choice deserves a good look.

I'm still working. Should I call now or wait?

Call now. Whether you need Part B at 65 depends on your employer coverage, and it's much easier to plan ahead than to fix it afterward.

Ready to start the adventure?

One call. A clear map. No pressure.

(208) 806-8887 ✉️ Email Chris

Appointments Mon–Wed & Fri–Sat 9am–9pm · Thursday until 2pm

Already on Medicare? Visit That Medicare Man · Business owner? See MyGroupMSA

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