If they're already receiving any type of Social Security, Railroad Retirement, or federal civil service retirement system benefit when they turn 65, they'll automatically be enrolled in Medicare Part B. Medicare will send a membership card and information packet two to three months before they turn 65. Their premiums will be automatically deducted from their monthly Social Security or other government benefits check. If they don't want to be enrolled in Medicare Part B, they can notify Medicare on a form included in the packet.

Those who aren't automatically enrolled in Medicare Part B can enroll as early as three months before their 65th birthday, with coverage beginning when they turn 65. They can enroll at any local Social Security office.