Who qualifies
Age 65+ (or any age with ALS, ESRD, or 24 months of SSDI). Most people get Part A premium-free; Part B has a standard premium ($185/month in 2026, more with higher income via IRMAA).
What you get
Part A (hospital), Part B (doctor/outpatient), Part D (drugs), plus Part C Medicare Advantage as an alternative bundle. Original Medicare + a Medigap plan + Part D is the most flexible combo; Medicare Advantage is the lowest-premium combo but locks you into a network.
Tips that matter
Your 7-month Initial Enrollment Period starts 3 months before your 65th birthday month. Missing it triggers permanent late-enrollment penalties. You can also delay if you have credible employer coverage — keep written proof.
How to apply
If you already get Social Security at 65, enrollment in Parts A & B is automatic. Otherwise enroll at medicare.gov or ssa.gov/medicare. Pick a Part D plan and decide on Medigap during open enrollment (the 6-month window starting your Part B effective date offers guaranteed-issue Medigap).
State-level help on top of this
Most states layer their own programs on top of this federal one — pharmacy assistance, property tax relief, state Medicaid waivers. Pick your state to see what's available where you live.