Uploaded April 2025 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Social Security and Medicare are vital government programs designed to provide financial and healthcare support.
Social Security offers income for retirees and those unable to work due to qualifying health reasons, and also provides survivor benefits to families.
Meanwhile, Medicare provides health insurance primarily for individuals aged 65 and older, as well as some individuals with certain disabilities or illnesses.
When it comes to enrollment, the Social Security Administration (SSA) works in conjunction with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to provide information and resources regarding Medicare enrollment. The SSA typically sends out enrollment information before an individual's Medicare enrollment period begins, usually around three months before they turn 65.
For those already receiving Social Security benefits at age 65, Medicare enrollment may occur automatically. However, if you are not yet receiving Social Security benefits, you will generally need to apply for Medicare through the SSA website.
Regarding payments, most individuals enrolled in Medicare Part B pay monthly premiums. The Social Security Administration can simplify this by deducting Part B premiums directly from Social Security benefit payments. Deductions for Medicare Advantage or Part D plans can also be arranged from benefits.
If you are not yet receiving Social Security benefits, Medicare will typically bill you directly for Part B coverage.
- - - - - -
Connect with AARP Online:
Visit us: aarp.org
Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/AARP
AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to helping people ages 50 and older to improve their quality of life as they age. With over 38 million members and growing, we lead positive social change through our extensive product offerings and services.
Social Security and Medicare are vital government programs designed to provide financial and healthcare support.
Social Security offers income for retirees and those unable to work due to qualifying health reasons, and also provides survivor benefits to families.
Meanwhile, Medicare provides health insurance primarily for individuals aged 65 and older, as well as some individuals with certain disabilities or illnesses.
When it comes to enrollment, the Social Security Administration (SSA) works in conjunction with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to provide information and resources regarding Medicare enrollment. The SSA typically sends out enrollment information before an individual's Medicare enrollment period begins, usually around three months before they turn 65.
For those already receiving Social Security benefits at age 65, Medicare enrollment may occur automatically. However, if you are not yet receiving Social Security benefits, you will generally need to apply for Medicare through the SSA website.
Regarding payments, most individuals enrolled in Medicare Part B pay monthly premiums. The Social Security Administration can simplify this by deducting Part B premiums directly from Social Security benefit payments. Deductions for Medicare Advantage or Part D plans can also be arranged from benefits.
If you are not yet receiving Social Security benefits, Medicare will typically bill you directly for Part B coverage.
- - - - - -
Connect with AARP Online:
Visit us: aarp.org
Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/AARP
AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to helping people ages 50 and older to improve their quality of life as they age. With over 38 million members and growing, we lead positive social change through our extensive product offerings and services.
