Medicare Enrollment Guide
Part A, B, C, D — what do you actually need? Understand your options, costs, enrollment windows, and penalties before you turn 65.
See the next Medicare enrollment date
Daily countdowns, active windows, and an add-to-calendar download.
Part A: Hospital Insurance
Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care.
What It Covers
- Inpatient hospital care
- Eligible skilled nursing facility care
- Hospice care
- Covered home health care
Cost
In 2026, Part A is premium-free for most people. If you must buy it, the monthly premium is $311 or $565, depending on how long you or your spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes.
Enrollment
Some people are enrolled automatically; others must sign up. Your Initial Enrollment Period generally lasts 7 months: the 3 months before your 65th-birthday month, that month, and the 3 months after.
Late Enrollment Penalty
If you must buy Part A and do not enroll when first eligible, the monthly premium may increase 10%. You generally pay the higher premium for twice the number of years you delayed.
Do not assume premium-free Part A should always start at 65. Medicare enrollment can affect HSA contribution eligibility, so verify the timing before you enroll.
Quick Comparison
IRMAA Surcharges (2026)
2026 amounts for married couples filing jointly, based on 2024 Modified Adjusted Gross Income. Part D figures are added to the plan premium.
| MAGI (Married Filing Jointly) | Part B Monthly | Part D Surcharge |
|---|---|---|
| $218,000 or less | $202.90 | $0.00 |
| Above $218,000 up to $274,000 | $284.10 | $14.50 |
| Above $274,000 up to $342,000 | $405.80 | $37.50 |
| Above $342,000 up to $410,000 | $527.50 | $60.40 |
| Above $410,000 and below $750,000 | $649.20 | $83.30 |
| $750,000 or above | $689.90 | $91.00 |
Source: Medicare.gov 2026 costs and income-related premiums. Thresholds and premiums can change each year.
Enrollment Timeline
Check whether enrollment will be automatic, when coverage should start, and whether HSA rules affect your timing.
Confirm Part A and Part B enrollment and compare Original Medicare with Medicare Advantage using current plan details.
Enrollment is still possible during this window, but the coverage start date depends on when you sign up.
Part B timing depends on coverage based on your or your spouse’s current employment. COBRA and retiree coverage do not extend the standard 8-month Part B Special Enrollment Period.
The right Medicare plan depends on more than just premiums.
Medicare Decisions Affect Your Entire Plan
Your income, tax strategy, and Social Security timing all influence your Medicare costs. We coordinate all of it so you don't get surprised by IRMAA surcharges or coverage gaps.
Schedule Your Medicare ConsultationOfficial Government Sources
Fact checked September 19, 2026. All Medicare rules and dollar amounts on this guide are sourced from U.S. government websites.
This guide provides general Medicare information for educational purposes. Dollar amounts shown are official 2026 figures and may change in later years. For official enrollment assistance, visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE.
Medicare Planning for Tampa Bay Residents
Medicare enrollment rules are federal, but the plans available to Tampa Bay residents and their provider networks vary by county. Use the official Medicare Plan Compare tool for current plan details, then confirm participation with both the plan and each provider before enrolling.
Many Tampa Bay retirees don't realize that their income decisions — Roth conversions, large required distributions, or capital gains — can affect IRMAA-adjusted Medicare premiums two years later. The official Medicare.gov cost table shows the current income thresholds and premium amounts.
For Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas County residents approaching 65 — or already enrolled and coordinating Medicare with retirement income — schedule a Medicare planning conversation with our team. For official enrollment help or plan-specific assistance, use Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or Florida's SHINE counseling program.