Before applying for Medicare online, you may need to create or access a personal my Social Security account. Social Security currently allows identity verification through Login.gov or ID.me.
What to have ready
- An email address you can access
- Your phone number and Social Security number
- Basic identity information
- A secure password saved in a safe place
Create or access your account
Begin at the official my Social Security page. Choose Login.gov or ID.me, complete the identity-verification steps and return to Social Security to access Medicare services. If you already have one of these sign-in accounts, use the existing account rather than creating a duplicate.
After applying
Monitor the application status and confirm your Medicare number and Part A and Part B effective dates. Once those dates are available, compare Medigap with Part D or Medicare Advantage around your healthcare needs.
Important: This article is for educational purposes and is not a complete statement of Medicare rules. Enrollment rights, costs, benefits and plan availability can vary by situation and location. Confirm current guidance before making a coverage decision.