Question 1

When should I sign up for Medicare if I'm turning 65 in New Jersey?

Accepted Answer

Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is a 7-month window: 3 months before your 65th birthday month, your birthday month, and 3 months after. To avoid a gap in coverage, enroll in Part B during the 3 months before your birthday month. If you are still working and have employer coverage, you may be able to delay Part B enrollment without penalty.

Question 2

Do I automatically get Medicare when I turn 65 in New Jersey?

Accepted Answer

Only if you are already receiving Social Security benefits. If you are receiving Social Security, you will be automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B and receive your Medicare card about 3 months before your 65th birthday. If you are not yet receiving Social Security, you must actively enroll through SSA.gov, by calling 1-800-772-1213, or by visiting your local Social Security office in NJ.

Question 3

What is the Medigap Open Enrollment Period when I turn 65?

Accepted Answer

Your 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period begins the month you are both age 65 AND enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this window, no insurer can deny you a Medigap plan or charge you more due to health conditions — regardless of your medical history. However, because New Jersey has year-round guaranteed issue, NJ residents have this protection at any time, making the open enrollment period less critical here than in most states.

Question 4

What if I have employer insurance and am turning 65 in New Jersey?

Accepted Answer

If you are still working and covered by employer group health insurance, you have a Special Enrollment Period to sign up for Medicare Part B without penalty after your employer coverage ends. You should still enroll in Part A at 65 (it is usually free). Do not enroll in Part B until your employer coverage ends to avoid paying both premiums unnecessarily. NJ SHIP at 1-800-792-8820 can help you coordinate the transition.

Question 5

Is there a penalty for late Medicare enrollment in New Jersey?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you do not enroll in Part B during your Initial Enrollment Period and you do not have qualifying employer coverage, you will pay a 10% late enrollment penalty for each 12-month period you were eligible but did not enroll — and this penalty is permanent. Part D also has a late enrollment penalty of 1% per month. New Jersey does not waive federal Medicare penalties.

Turning 65 in New Jersey: Your Complete Medicare Checklist (2026)

Your Medicare Enrollment Timeline

The Three Decisions Every New NJ Medicare Enrollee Must Make

1. Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage?

2. Which Medigap Plan? (If choosing Original Medicare)

3. Which Part D Drug Plan?

Turning 65 in NJ — Medicare FAQ