Turning 65 in Texas? Here’s What You Need to Know About Medicare Enrollment
As your 65th birthday approaches, there’s a lot to look forward to—and one very important decision to make: enrolling in Medicare. Whether you’re retiring soon or continuing to work, understanding how Medicare works in Texas can save you time, money, and stress. Let’s walk through the essentials of Medicare Part A and B, eligibility rules, and what every Texan turning 65 needs to know.
Why Age 65 Matters in Texas Medicare Enrollment
Turning 65 marks your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) for Medicare—a seven-month window that begins three months before your birthday month and ends three months after. Missing this window can lead to late enrollment penalties, so it’s essential to plan ahead.
In Texas, just like nationwide, Original Medicare consists of two parts:
- Part A covers hospital stays, skilled nursing care, and some home health services.
- Part B covers outpatient care, doctor visits, preventive screenings, lab work, and durable medical equipment.
If you’ve worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years, you’re likely eligible for premium-free Part A. Part B, however, comes with a monthly premium, which may vary based on your income.
Am I Automatically Enrolled in Medicare at 65?
If you’re already receiving Social Security benefits when you turn 65, you’ll likely be automatically enrolled in both Part A and Part B. However, if you’re not yet drawing Social Security, you’ll need to sign up manually, which you can do online at ssa.gov, over the phone, or at your local Social Security office.
If you’re still working and covered under an employer-sponsored health plan, you may have the option to delay Part B without penalty—but be sure to get the facts before making that decision. Consulting with a local Medicare agent in Kerrville or anywhere in Texas can help you avoid costly mistakes.
What Texans Need to Know About Medicare Costs
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Part A is usually free for those who qualify.
- Part B has a monthly premium—currently starting at $174.70 (as of 2025) but may be higher for individuals with greater income.
- Late enrollment penalties can apply to Part B if you miss your IEP and don’t qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.
It’s also important to understand that Original Medicare doesn’t cover everything. That’s why many Texans choose to add a Medicare Supplement Plan, enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan, or get a Part D Prescription Drug Plan—each offering different types of coverage.
How Advanced Insurance Group Helps Texans Turning 65
At Advanced Insurance Group, we specialize in Medicare insurance for Texas seniors, providing one-on-one help to walk you through every step. Whether you're in Kerrville, the Hill Country, or elsewhere in Texas, we’re here to:
- Confirm your Medicare eligibility
- Help you enroll in Part A and B
- Compare Medicare plans and coverage options
Ensure you meet all key deadlines and avoid penalties
We’re not tied to a single insurance company, so we offer unbiased guidance and a variety of options from top-rated insurance carriers like Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Humana, and UnitedHealthcare.
Need Help Navigating Medicare in Texas? Let’s Talk.
Enrolling in Medicare doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you're turning 65 this year or helping a loved one prepare, Advanced Insurance Group can help you make informed, confident decisions.
Contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation and learn more about Medicare insurance in Texas.