---
title: "How to Sign Up for Medicare: Your Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2026) | Medicare Blog"
description: "Not sure how to sign up for Medicare? This step-by-step guide walks you through enrolling in Parts A, B, C, and D — online, by phone, or in person. Includes official SSA links and key deadlines."
lang: en
json-ld: |
  [
    {
      "@context": "https://schema.org",
      "@type": "Article",
      "@id": "https://dalton-insuranceagency.com/blog/how-to-sign-up-for-medicare-step-by-step-guide#article",
      "mainEntityOfPage": {
        "@type": "WebPage",
        "@id": "https://dalton-insuranceagency.com/blog/how-to-sign-up-for-medicare-step-by-step-guide"
      },
      "headline": "How to Sign Up for Medicare: Your Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2026)",
      "alternativeHeadline": "How to Sign Up for Medicare: Your Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2026)",
      "description": "Not sure how to sign up for Medicare? This step-by-step guide walks you through enrolling in Parts A, B, C, and D — online, by phone, or in person. Includes official SSA links and key deadlines.",
      "image": [
        "https://dalton-insuranceagency.com/favicon-dia-preview.png"
      ],
      "author": {
        "@type": "Person",
        "name": "Tyler Dalton",
        "jobTitle": "Licensed Medicare Insurance Agent",
        "telephone": "+1-334-489-3624",
        "url": "https://dalton-insuranceagency.com/tyler-dalton-author",
        "affiliation": {
          "@type": "Organization",
          "name": "Dalton Insurance Agency"
        }
      },
      "publisher": {
        "@type": "Organization",
        "name": "Dalton Insurance Agency",
        "logo": {
          "@type": "ImageObject",
          "url": "https://dalton-insuranceagency.com/favicon-dia-preview.png"
        },
        "url": "https://dalton-insuranceagency.com"
      },
      "datePublished": "2026-02-25T00:00:00+00:00",
      "dateModified": "2026-04-25T11:27:37.559022+00:00",
      "articleSection": "Medicare Enrollment",
      "keywords": "Medicare Enrollment, Medicare, Annual Enrollment Period, Medicare Advantage, Alabama",
      "inLanguage": "en",
      "wordCount": 1876,
      "articleBody": "\nSigning up for Medicare doesn't have to be confusing. Whether you're turning 65, retiring, or dealing with a disability, this guide walks you through exactly how to enroll — step by step — with direct links to the official government websites.\n\nI've helped hundreds of people in Alabama navigate this process, and the number one thing I tell everyone: don't wait until the last minute. Missing your enrollment window can mean penalties that last for life.",
      "about": [
        {
          "@type": "Thing",
          "name": "Medicare Advantage",
          "sameAs": "https://www.medicare.gov/sign-up-change-plans/types-of-medicare-health-plans/medicare-advantage-plans"
        },
        {
          "@type": "Thing",
          "name": "Medigap",
          "sameAs": "https://www.medicare.gov/supplements-other-insurance/whats-medicare-supplement-insurance-medigap"
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "@context": "https://schema.org",
      "@type": "InsuranceAgency",
      "@id": "https://dalton-insuranceagency.com/#business",
      "name": "Dalton Insurance Agency",
      "url": "https://dalton-insuranceagency.com",
      "telephone": "+1-334-489-3624",
      "image": "https://dalton-insuranceagency.com/favicon-dia-preview.png",
      "description": "Independent Medicare brokerage serving Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, Mississippi, South Carolina, North Carolina, Louisiana, and Illinois.",
      "address": {
        "@type": "PostalAddress",
        "streetAddress": "221 E South Street",
        "addressLocality": "Dadeville",
        "addressRegion": "AL",
        "postalCode": "36853",
        "addressCountry": "US"
      },
      "geo": {
        "@type": "GeoCoordinates",
        "latitude": 32.8312,
        "longitude": -85.7636
      },
      "openingHoursSpecification": {
        "@type": "OpeningHoursSpecification",
        "dayOfWeek": [
          "Monday",
          "Tuesday",
          "Wednesday",
          "Thursday",
          "Friday"
        ],
        "opens": "08:00",
        "closes": "17:00"
      },
      "areaServed": [
        {
          "@type": "State",
          "name": "Alabama"
        },
        {
          "@type": "State",
          "name": "Georgia"
        },
        {
          "@type": "State",
          "name": "Florida"
        },
        {
          "@type": "State",
          "name": "Tennessee"
        },
        {
          "@type": "State",
          "name": "Mississippi"
        },
        {
          "@type": "State",
          "name": "South Carolina"
        },
        {
          "@type": "State",
          "name": "North Carolina"
        },
        {
          "@type": "State",
          "name": "Louisiana"
        },
        {
          "@type": "State",
          "name": "Illinois"
        }
      ],
      "priceRange": "Free Consultations",
      "sameAs": [
        "https://www.facebook.com/DALTONINSURANCEAGENCY1/",
        "https://www.instagram.com/drtylerdalton/",
        "https://x.com/drtylerdalton"
      ]
    },
    {
      "@context": "https://schema.org",
      "@type": "Person",
      "name": "Tyler Dalton",
      "honorificPrefix": "Dr.",
      "honorificSuffix": "PharmD",
      "jobTitle": "Founder and Licensed Insurance Broker",
      "worksFor": {
        "@type": "Organization",
        "name": "Dalton Insurance Agency"
      },
      "url": "https://dalton-insuranceagency.com/about/tyler-dalton",
      "image": "https://dalton-insuranceagency.com/tyler-headshot.jpg",
      "telephone": "+1-334-489-3624",
      "address": {
        "@type": "PostalAddress",
        "addressLocality": "Dadeville",
        "addressRegion": "AL",
        "addressCountry": "US"
      },
      "hasCredential": [
        {
          "@type": "EducationalOccupationalCredential",
          "credentialCategory": "degree",
          "name": "Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)"
        },
        {
          "@type": "EducationalOccupationalCredential",
          "credentialCategory": "license",
          "name": "Licensed Insurance Broker"
        }
      ],
      "knowsAbout": [
        "Medicare Advantage",
        "Medicare Supplement Plans",
        "Medigap",
        "Part D Prescription Drug Plans",
        "Medicare Enrollment",
        "Alabama Medicare"
      ]
    },
    {
      "@context": "https://schema.org",
      "@type": "BreadcrumbList",
      "itemListElement": [
        {
          "@type": "ListItem",
          "position": 1,
          "name": "Home",
          "item": "https://dalton-insuranceagency.com/"
        },
        {
          "@type": "ListItem",
          "position": 2,
          "name": "Blog",
          "item": "https://dalton-insuranceagency.com/blog"
        },
        {
          "@type": "ListItem",
          "position": 3,
          "name": "Medicare Enrollment",
          "item": "https://dalton-insuranceagency.com/blog?category=Medicare Enrollment"
        },
        {
          "@type": "ListItem",
          "position": 4,
          "name": "How to Sign Up for Medicare: Your Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2026)",
          "item": "https://dalton-insuranceagency.com/blog/how-to-sign-up-for-medicare-step-by-step-guide"
        }
      ]
    }
  ]
---

[Call Now: (334) 489-3624 ](tel:13344893624)Free Medicare Consultation Free Consult 

[

Dalton Insurance Medicare & Wealth Advisors 

](/)

-   [Home](/)
-   Medicare
-   Retirement & Wealth
-   Resources
-   [About Us](/about)

[(334) 489-3624](tel:13344893624)[Book Appointment](/appointments)

1.  [Home ](/)
2.  [Blog](/blog)
3.  [Medicare Enrollment](</blog?category=Medicare Enrollment>)
4.  How to Sign Up for Medicare: Your Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2026) 

[Back to Blog](/blog)

February 25, 2026

12 min read 

Tyler Dalton 

# How to Sign Up for Medicare: Your Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Not sure how to sign up for Medicare? This step-by-step guide walks you through enrolling in Parts A, B, C, and D — online, by phone, or in person. Includes official SSA links and key deadlines.

Share this article

[Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fdalton-insuranceagency.com%2Fblog%2Fhow-to-sign-up-for-medicare-step-by-step-guide)[Pinterest](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdalton-insuranceagency.com%2Fblog%2Fhow-to-sign-up-for-medicare-step-by-step-guide&description=How%20to%20Sign%20Up%20for%20Medicare%3A%20Your%20Complete%20Step-by-Step%20Guide%20\(2026\))[Text](sms:?body=How%20to%20Sign%20Up%20for%20Medicare%3A%20Your%20Complete%20Step-by-Step%20Guide%20\(2026\)%0Ahttps%3A%2F%2Fdalton-insuranceagency.com%2Fblog%2Fhow-to-sign-up-for-medicare-step-by-step-guide)[Email](mailto:?subject=How%20to%20Sign%20Up%20for%20Medicare%3A%20Your%20Complete%20Step-by-Step%20Guide%20\(2026\)&body=I%20thought%20you%20might%20find%20this%20helpful%3A%20https%3A%2F%2Fdalton-insuranceagency.com%2Fblog%2Fhow-to-sign-up-for-medicare-step-by-step-guide)Copy Link[LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/sharing/share-offsite/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdalton-insuranceagency.com%2Fblog%2Fhow-to-sign-up-for-medicare-step-by-step-guide)[](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdalton-insuranceagency.com%2Fblog%2Fhow-to-sign-up-for-medicare-step-by-step-guide&text=How%20to%20Sign%20Up%20for%20Medicare%3A%20Your%20Complete%20Step-by-Step%20Guide%20\(2026\))

Signing up for Medicare doesn't have to be confusing. Whether you're turning 65, retiring, or dealing with a disability, this guide walks you through **exactly how to enroll** — step by step — with direct links to the official government websites.

I've helped hundreds of people in Alabama navigate this process, and the number one thing I tell everyone: **don't wait until the last minute.** Missing your enrollment window can mean penalties that last for life.

**💡 Quick Summary:** Most people sign up for Medicare Parts A & B through [Social Security (ssa.gov)](https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up). You can apply online in about 10–15 minutes. Parts C and D are enrolled through [Medicare.gov](https://www.medicare.gov/plan-compare/) or with help from a licensed agent like me.

## Before You Start: What You'll Need

Gather these items before you begin. Having them ready makes the process much faster:

-   **Your Social Security number**
-   **Date and place of birth** (city, state, country)
-   **Current health insurance information** — including start and end dates for any employer group health plans
-   **If enrolling in Part B only:** a valid email address and your existing Medicare number (found on your red, white, and blue Medicare card)

## Step 1: Determine Your Enrollment Period

When you can sign up depends on your situation. There are three main enrollment periods:

### Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

This is a **7-month window** around your 65th birthday:

-   3 months **before** your birthday month
-   Your birthday month
-   3 months **after** your birthday month

**⚠️ Critical:** If you miss your IEP and don't have qualifying employer coverage, you could face a **10% Part B penalty for every 12 months** you were eligible but didn't enroll. This penalty lasts for life. [Use our Part B Penalty Calculator →](https://daltoninsurance.biz/calculators/part-b-penalty)

### General Enrollment Period (GEP)

If you missed your IEP, you can enroll during the **General Enrollment Period: January 1 – March 31** each year. Coverage starts July 1.

### Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

If you or your spouse are still working and have employer health coverage, you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. You have **8 months after the employment or coverage ends** (whichever comes first) to sign up without penalty.

[→ Calculate your personal enrollment timeline here](https://daltoninsurance.biz/calculators/initial-enrollment-period)

## Step 2: Sign Up for Medicare Part A & Part B

You enroll in Original Medicare (Parts A and B) through **Social Security** — not through Medicare.gov.

### Option 1: Apply Online (Fastest)

The easiest way to sign up is online through Social Security's website:

1.  Go to [**ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up**](https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up)
2.  Click **"Apply online"** — this takes you to the [iClaim application](https://secure.ssa.gov/iClaim/rib)
3.  If you're also applying for Social Security retirement benefits, you'll complete both at the same time
4.  If you only want Medicare (not retirement benefits yet), select **"Medicare only"**
5.  Follow the prompts, entering your personal information and health insurance history
6.  Review and submit

**✅ Pro Tip:** The online application takes about 10–15 minutes. You'll get a confirmation number immediately. Save it!

### Option 2: Call Social Security

If you prefer to enroll by phone:

-   Call [**1-800-772-1213**](tel:+1-800-772-1213) (TTY: [1-800-325-0778](tel:+1-800-325-0778))
-   Available Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. in your time zone
-   Tell the representative you want to sign up for Medicare Parts A and B (or Part A only)
-   Available in English, Spanish, and other languages

### Option 3: Visit Your Local Social Security Office

You can also visit a Social Security office in person. Find your nearest office at [ssa.gov/locator](https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp).

**Important:** You may need an appointment. Call ahead to check.

## Step 3: Sign Up for Part B Only (If You Already Have Part A)

If you already have Part A and previously declined Part B — or never signed up — you can enroll in Part B separately.

1.  Go to [**ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up/part-b-only**](https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up/part-b-only)
2.  You'll need your Medicare number and a valid email address
3.  Follow the prompts to complete your enrollment

This situation is common for people who had employer coverage past 65 and are now retiring.

## Step 4: Decide Between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage (Part C)

Once you have Parts A and B, you have a choice:

Feature

Original Medicare (A + B)

Medicare Advantage (Part C)

**Network**

Any doctor that accepts Medicare

Usually requires in-network providers

**Out-of-Pocket Max**

No cap (unless you add a Supplement)

Annual maximum out-of-pocket limit

**Drug Coverage**

Requires separate Part D plan

Usually included

**Extras**

None

May include dental, vision, hearing

**Monthly Premium**

Part B premium + Supplement premium

Part B premium + plan premium (often $0)

Not sure which is right for you? [Read our full comparison of Supplements vs. Advantage plans →](https://daltoninsurance.biz/medicare-comparison)

## Step 5: Enroll in a Medicare Advantage or Part D Plan

Parts C and D are **not** enrolled through Social Security. You sign up through:

### Option 1: Medicare.gov Plan Finder

1.  Go to [**Medicare.gov/plan-compare**](https://www.medicare.gov/plan-compare/)
2.  Enter your ZIP code
3.  Compare Medicare Advantage and Part D plans available in your area
4.  Select a plan and follow the enrollment steps

### Option 2: Work with a Licensed Agent (Free)

A licensed Medicare agent can help you compare all available plans in your area, explain the differences, and enroll you — **at no cost to you**. The insurance companies pay agent commissions, so our service is completely free.

#### Why Work with an Agent?

-   We compare plans from multiple carriers (not just one)
-   We check if your doctors and medications are covered
-   We handle the paperwork
-   We're here year-round if you have questions or need to make changes
-   It costs you nothing — same price whether you use an agent or go direct

[**→ Schedule your free Medicare consultation**](https://daltoninsurance.biz/appointments)

## Step 6: Consider a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Policy

If you choose Original Medicare, I strongly recommend adding a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan to fill the gaps. Without one, you're responsible for 20% of Part B costs with **no annual maximum**.

The best time to enroll in Medigap is during your **Medigap Open Enrollment Period** — the 6-month window starting when you turn 65 AND are enrolled in Part B. During this window, insurance companies **cannot deny you or charge more** based on health conditions.

[Learn more about Medicare Supplement plans →](https://daltoninsurance.biz/medicare-supplement)

## Step 7: Confirm Your Coverage

After enrolling, here's what to expect:

1.  **Medicare card arrives by mail** — usually within a few weeks of enrollment
2.  **Log in to Medicare.gov** to verify your coverage is active at [medicare.gov/account/login](https://www.medicare.gov/account/login)
3.  **Keep your Medicare card safe** — you'll need your Medicare number for doctor visits, pharmacy, and any supplemental plan enrollment
4.  **Mark your calendar** for the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7) when you can change Part C or D plans each year

## Special Situations

### Still Working Past 65?

If you have health coverage through your (or your spouse's) current employer with 20+ employees, you may be able to delay Medicare Part B without penalty. Talk to your HR department and a Medicare advisor before making this decision.

[Read our detailed guide on working past 65 →](https://daltoninsurance.biz/learn-medicare/how-to-sign-up)

### Have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)?

You can get Medicare regardless of age if you have ESRD. Call Social Security at [**1-800-772-1213**](tel:+1-800-772-1213) and tell them you want to apply for Medicare due to ESRD.

### Receiving Disability Benefits?

If you've been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for 24 months, you're **automatically enrolled** in Medicare Parts A and B. Your Medicare card will arrive in the mail about 3 months before your coverage starts.

## Common Mistakes to Avoid

**❌ Mistake #1: Missing your Initial Enrollment Period**  
The Part B late enrollment penalty is 10% for every 12-month period you could've had Part B but didn't. This is added to your monthly premium **permanently**.

**❌ Mistake #2: Assuming employer coverage means you don't need to do anything**  
If your employer has fewer than 20 employees, Medicare becomes your primary coverage at 65. You need to sign up.

**❌ Mistake #3: Waiting to enroll in a Medigap plan**  
Your best rates and guaranteed acceptance are during the 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment window. After that, insurance companies can deny you or charge more based on health.

**❌ Mistake #4: Not signing up for Part D**  
Even if you don't take medications now, there's a [Part D late enrollment penalty](https://daltoninsurance.biz/calculators/part-d-penalty) of 1% per month for every month you were eligible but didn't have creditable drug coverage.

## Key Medicare Enrollment Dates for 2026

Period

Dates

What You Can Do

**Initial Enrollment Period**

7-month window around your 65th birthday

Sign up for Parts A and B

**General Enrollment Period**

January 1 – March 31

Sign up if you missed your IEP (coverage starts July 1)

**Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)**

October 15 – December 7

Switch Advantage or Part D plans (coverage starts Jan 1)

**Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment**

January 1 – March 31

Switch from one MA plan to another, or back to Original Medicare

**Medigap Open Enrollment**

6 months starting when you turn 65 + have Part B

Guaranteed acceptance for Supplement plans

## Official Resources & Links

-   [**Social Security Medicare Sign-Up Page**](https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/sign-up) — Start your enrollment here
-   [**Medicare Plan Finder**](https://www.medicare.gov/plan-compare/) — Compare Part C and Part D plans
-   [**Medicare.gov Getting Started Guide**](https://www.medicare.gov/basics/get-started-with-medicare) — Official overview of how Medicare works
-   [**Find Your Local Social Security Office**](https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp)
-   [**Medicare Enrollment Timeline Calculator**](https://daltoninsurance.biz/calculators/initial-enrollment-period) — Our free tool to find your dates

## Need Help? We're Here for You

Signing up for Medicare is one of the most important healthcare decisions you'll make. If you have any questions — or just want someone to walk you through it — I'm here to help.

**Call us:** [(855) 593-1446](tel:+1-855-593-1446)  
**Schedule online:** [Book a free consultation](https://daltoninsurance.biz/appointments)  
**Email:** [tyler@daltoninsurance.biz](mailto:tyler@daltoninsurance.biz)

We serve clients throughout Alabama — Auburn, Opelika, Dadeville, Alexander City, Troy, Montgomery, Birmingham, and beyond. Whether you prefer to meet in person, by phone, or over video, we'll make it easy.

## Frequently Asked Questions

**How long does it take to sign up for Medicare online?**

The online application through Social Security takes about 10–15 minutes. You'll receive a confirmation number immediately after submitting.

**Is there a fee to sign up for Medicare?**

There's no fee to sign up. Most people don't pay a premium for Part A if they (or their spouse) worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years. Part B has a monthly premium ($202.90 in 2026 for most people).

**Can I sign up for Medicare if I'm still working?**

Yes. If your employer has 20+ employees, you can delay Part B without penalty while you have employer coverage. If your employer has fewer than 20 employees, Medicare becomes primary at 65 and you should enroll.

**What happens if I miss my enrollment period?**

You may face late enrollment penalties. The Part B penalty is 10% for every 12 months you were eligible but didn't enroll, and it's added to your monthly premium for life. You'd have to wait for the General Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31) to sign up.

**Do I need to sign up for Part D even if I don't take medications?**

It's strongly recommended. If you don't enroll when first eligible and don't have other creditable drug coverage, you'll pay a penalty of 1% of the national base premium for every month you were without coverage. That penalty is permanent.

**Can a Medicare agent help me sign up for free?**

Yes! Licensed Medicare agents are paid by insurance companies, not by you. We can help you compare plans, check your doctors and medications, and handle the enrollment paperwork — all at no cost to you.

Share this article

[Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fdalton-insuranceagency.com%2Fblog%2Fhow-to-sign-up-for-medicare-step-by-step-guide)[Pinterest](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdalton-insuranceagency.com%2Fblog%2Fhow-to-sign-up-for-medicare-step-by-step-guide&description=How%20to%20Sign%20Up%20for%20Medicare%3A%20Your%20Complete%20Step-by-Step%20Guide%20\(2026\))[Text](sms:?body=How%20to%20Sign%20Up%20for%20Medicare%3A%20Your%20Complete%20Step-by-Step%20Guide%20\(2026\)%0Ahttps%3A%2F%2Fdalton-insuranceagency.com%2Fblog%2Fhow-to-sign-up-for-medicare-step-by-step-guide)[Email](mailto:?subject=How%20to%20Sign%20Up%20for%20Medicare%3A%20Your%20Complete%20Step-by-Step%20Guide%20\(2026\)&body=I%20thought%20you%20might%20find%20this%20helpful%3A%20https%3A%2F%2Fdalton-insuranceagency.com%2Fblog%2Fhow-to-sign-up-for-medicare-step-by-step-guide)Copy Link[LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/sharing/share-offsite/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdalton-insuranceagency.com%2Fblog%2Fhow-to-sign-up-for-medicare-step-by-step-guide)[](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdalton-insuranceagency.com%2Fblog%2Fhow-to-sign-up-for-medicare-step-by-step-guide&text=How%20to%20Sign%20Up%20for%20Medicare%3A%20Your%20Complete%20Step-by-Step%20Guide%20\(2026\))

![Tyler Dalton, Medicare advisor at Dalton Insurance Agency](/assets/tyler-headshot-DgKnxokr.jpg)

## About the Author

Tyler Dalton

Licensed Medicare Insurance Agent

Tyler Dalton is a licensed Medicare advisor specializing in helping seniors navigate Medicare enrollment and coverage options. With expertise in Medicare Advantage, Medigap, and Part D plans,Tyler provides personalized guidance to help you find the best coverage for your needs.

[View Full Bio →](/about/tyler-dalton)

## Join Our Free Medicare 101 Webinar

Learn everything you need to know about Medicare in our comprehensive educational webinar. Perfect for those new to Medicare or reviewing their options.

[Sign Up for Free Webinar →](https://go.daltoninsurance.biz)

## Need Personalized Guidance?

Our licensed Medicare advisors are here to help you navigate your coverage options. Schedule a free consultation today.

[Schedule Free Consultation](/#contact)

## Get Medicare Tips Delivered to Your Inbox

Join 5,000+ Alabama seniors receiving expert Medicare guidance and updates. Plus, get our free Medicare Enrollment Checklist PDF when you subscribe.

Subscribe Free

🔒 We never share your information. Unsubscribe anytime.

## Continue Reading

[

Nov 1, 2025 • 18 min read 

### Medicare Annual Enrollment 2026: Your Complete Guide Before the December 7 Deadline

Complete guide to Medicare Annual Enrollment 2025. Learn how to compare plans, avoid costly mistakes, and choose the best Medicare coverage before the December 7 deadline.

Read article→ ](/blog/medicare-annual-enrollment-2025-guide)[

Oct 15, 2025 • 15 min read 

### Medicare AEP 2026 in Alabama: What Every Senior Should Know Before December 7

Medicare Annual Enrollment Period runs October 15 through December 7, 2025. Learn about major plan changes, exits, Guaranteed Issue rights, and how to get free reviews in Auburn, Dadeville, Opelika, and surrounding Alabama areas.

Read article→ ](/blog/medicare-aep-2025-alabama-auburn-dadeville-guide)[

Sep 25, 2025 • 20 min read 

### Working Past 65: Complete Guide to Medicare Enrollment, Employer Coverage, and Avoiding Penalties

Essential guide for those working past 65. Learn when to enroll in Medicare, how employer coverage works, coordination of benefits, and strategies to avoid late enrollment penalties.

Read article→ ](/blog/working-past-65)[

Feb 26, 2026 • 10 min read 

### Do I Need Medicare If I'm Still Working?

If you're still working at 65 with employer coverage, you can delay Medicare Part B — but only if your employer has 20+ employees. Here are the rules.

Read article→ ](/blog/do-i-need-medicare-if-still-working)[

Sep 16, 2024 • 12 min read 

### Working Past 65? Your Complete Guide to Enrolling in Medicare Part B When You're Ready

A comprehensive guide for Alabama seniors working past 65. Learn when to enroll in Medicare Part B, the critical employer size rules, required forms (CMS-40B and CMS-L564), and how to avoid costly late enrollment penalties.

Read article→ ](/blog/working-past-65-medicare-part-b-enrollment-guide)[

Mar 1, 2026 • 10 min read 

### Can I Cancel Medicare? What Happens If I Drop Coverage

You can drop Medicare Part B, but you'll face lifetime penalties if you re-enroll later. Here's when it makes sense and when it doesn't.

Read article→ ](/blog/can-i-cancel-medicare)

In This Article

-   [What Medicare Covers for Diabetes](#what-medicare-covers)
-   [Insulin, CGMs, and Supplies](#insulin-cgms-supplies)
-   [Costs and Gaps](#costs-gaps)
-   [How to Get Help](#get-help)

Related Resources

-   [Medicare Supplement Plan G vs N](/blog/plan-g-vs-n-alabama)
-   [What Is IRMAA?](/blog/what-is-irmaa)
-   [Working Past 65 & Medicare](/blog/working-past-65)
-   [Turning 65 Checklist](/blog/turning-65-checklist)

Contact Us

📞 (334) 489-3624

✉️ tyler@daltoninsurance.biz

📍 221 E South Street, Dadeville, AL 36853

🕒 Mon–Fri: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM

⭐ Lifetime Support: Once you are our client, you are our client for life⭐ 

### Dalton Insurance

Your trusted Medicare & Wealth advisors. Helping families secure their health and protect their wealth for nearly 15 years.

[(334) 489-3624](tel:13344893624)[tyler@daltoninsurance.biz](mailto:tyler@daltoninsurance.biz)

Serving Clients Nationwide

### Learn Medicare

-   [Beginner's Guide](/learn-medicare/beginners-guide)
-   [Common Medicare Mistakes](/medicare-mistakes)
-   [Parts of Medicare (A, B, C, D)](/learn-medicare/parts-of-medicare)
-   [Medicare Costs 2026](/learn-medicare/medicare-costs-2026)
-   [Supplements vs. Advantage](/learn-medicare/supplements-vs-advantage)
-   [Best Supplement Plan?](/learn-medicare/which-medicare-supplement-plan-is-best)

### Resources

-   [AEP Guide](/annual-enrollment-period)
-   [AEP 2026 Checklist](/aep-checklist)
-   [Lake Martin Retirement Guide](/lake-martin-retirement-guide)
-   [Dadeville Medicare Advisor](/service-areas/dadeville-medicare-advisor)
-   [Auburn Medicare Advisor](/service-areas/auburn-medicare-advisor)
-   [Opelika Medicare Agent](/service-areas/opelika-medicare-agent)
-   [Alexander City Medicare](/service-areas/alexander-city-medicare-agent)
-   [Turning 65 Checklist](/turning-65-medicare-timeline)
-   [Enrollment Checklist 2026](/medicare-enrollment-checklist)
-   [2026 Cheat Sheet](/resources/medicare-2026-cheat-sheet)
-   [IRMAA Calculator](/irmaa-calculator)
-   [Cancer Insurance Calculator](/cancer-insurance-calculator)
-   [All Calculators](/resources/calculators)
-   [Blog](/blog)
-   [Service Areas](/service-areas)

### Coverage Options

-   [Medicare Supplements](/medicare-supplement)
-   [Medicare Advantage](/medicare-advantage)
-   [Part D Drug Plans](/part-d)
-   [Cancer Insurance](/coverage/cancer-insurance)
-   [Annuities](/coverage/annuities)
-   [Long-Term Care](/coverage/long-term-care)
-   [Life Insurance](/coverage/life-insurance)

© 2026 Dalton Insurance Agency. All rights reserved.

Licensed in: [AL](/service-areas) • [GA](/medicare-service-areas-georgia) • FL  • TN  • MS  • SC  • NC  • IL  • and more 

[](https://www.facebook.com/DALTONINSURANCEAGENCY1/)[](https://www.tiktok.com/@drtylerdalton1)[](https://www.instagram.com/drtylerdalton/)[](https://www.linkedin.com/company/101849497/)[](https://www.youtube.com/@TylerDalton)

© 2026 Dalton Insurance Agency. All Rights Reserved. Medicare has neither reviewed nor endorsed this information. Not connected with or endorsed by the United States government or the federal Medicare program. Calling our phone number will connect you to a licensed broker who is trained and certified to help you review the plan options available in your area. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 10 organizations which offer many products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.