When it comes to Medicare Part B, knowing when to sign up is only half the battle — the other half is knowing how. Whether you’re approaching your 65th birthday or finally retiring after years of working past 65, the enrollment process can feel like a maze of government forms and digital portals. But putting it off could lead to higher costs due to late enrollment penalties.
Luckily, you don’t have to fly blind through your enrollment. Here’s your step-by-step guide on how to enroll in Medicare Part B, key nuances that can affect your choices, and what you can expect to pay.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Enrolling in Medicare Part B
Medicare Part B covers basic healthcare services such as doctor’s appointments, preventative care, and outpatient services like physical therapy. To enroll in Part B, you’ll first need to make sure you’re already enrolled in Medicare Part A. If you don’t have Part A, you’ll need to apply for Medicare through Social Security first.
Once you’re enrolled in Part A, you can sign up for Part B. The easiest way to sign up for Medicare Part B is online through the Social Security website. You can also mail or fax your application or receive in-person help at your local Social Security office. Here’s what that process looks like:
Step 1: Locate the application forms. You’ll need to visit Social Security’s website to apply online. For those applying by mail, fax, or in person, you’ll need to download and print form CMS-40B from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). If you’re still working or enrolling during a Special Enrollment Period, you will also need the CMS-L564: Request for Employment Information form.
Step 2: Complete the Part B forms. Follow the instructions given on each form to complete your Part B application. You’ll need the following information to fill it out:
- Your Medicare number
- Current address and phone number
- Your email address
- Documentation of any existing healthcare coverage through your/your spouse’s employer
Step 3: Submit your Part B forms. After completing your application, make sure to sign and date your form(s). If applying online, simply hit ‘submit.’ Otherwise, you’ll need to mail or fax the form(s) to your local Social Security office. Be aware that Medicare Part B wait times can vary due to application volume, errors, or method of submission, and applying online can be faster.
Medicare Part B enrollment: Avoiding coverage gaps and penalties
Signing up for Part B isn’t always straightforward. When you can enroll, how you’ll pay for Part B, and whether you’ll receive a late enrollment penalty depend on your specific situation. Here are a few nuances to consider:
How to enroll in Medicare Part B with a Special Enrollment Period
If you previously delayed enrollment in Medicare due to existing health coverage through your or your spouse’s job, you may be eligible to enroll in Part B (or Part A and Part B, if needed) through a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). Your SEP starts the month after your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) ends and is available until eight months after your health coverage or job ends.
Enrolling during your SEP helps you avoid a 10% late enrollment penalty added to your premium. When applying during your SEP, make sure to include a Request for Employee Information.
Taking Social Security payments
If you already receive Social Security benefits, you’ve likely been enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B automatically. Here’s how to get proof of enrollment in Medicare Part B:
- Log in to your account at https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/
- On your main dashboard, find the link to your “Benefit Verification Letter”
- Open the link to view, download, or print your document, which acts as official proof of your enrollment
You can also sign into your Medicare account to view and print your Medicare card or get further assistance from your local Social Security office to ensure you’re covered.
Paying for Medicare Part B
How you’ll pay for Medicare depends on whether you’re receiving Social Security benefits or not. For those receiving monthly Social Security payments, your standard monthly Part B premium — $202.90 for 2026, unless you have a higher income — is automatically deducted from your check. If you haven’t started taking Social Security yet, you’ll receive a quarterly bill from CMS, which you can pay directly through your Medicare account or by setting up recurring payments through your bank.
Feel confident in your Medicare coverage
Selecting Medicare coverage means finding a plan that fits your health needs and your budget — and while that might look different for everyone, enrolling in Part B helps cover many of your routine medical services, ensuring access to care. If you have questions about Medicare Part B coverage or the enrollment process, you can visit Medicare’s website or speak with one of our licensed UMA agents.
*Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog post is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical consultation or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
United Medicare Advisors does not endorse or recommend any specific products, treatments, or procedures mentioned in this article. Reliance on any information provided in this blog post is solely at your own risk. We encourage you to discuss any health concerns or questions with your doctor before making any decisions about your health, wellness, or treatment.
