1. Enroll in Medicare Part A. Part A has no premium as long as you or your spouse has worked 40 quarters (10 years) over your lifetime in the United States. Part A coverage includes inpatient hospital coverage and skilled nursing facility coverage after a hospital stay.

2. Enroll in Medicare Part B. You should do this three months before you turn 65 by applying online. You will enroll in Part A at the same time you are enrolling for Part B. Part B coverage includes doctor visits, preventative healthcare, lab work, diagnostic services, chemotherapy, radiation, dialysis and more. Most people will pay $174.71 each month for Medicare Part B.

3. Sign up for a Medicare Supplement Plan G or N. Medicare Supplement Plan G is one of the most popular and comprehensive plans. It covers all of the gaps in Part A and B except for the Medicare Part B deductible of $240.00. Plan N may be more cost-effective plans for certain individuals. Plan N is similar to Plan G but requires additional co-pays after the $240.00 deductible has been met and therefore is less expensive.

4. Select a Medicare Part D Plan. Medicare Part D is prescription drug coverage. There are currently 22 different plans available. By providing me a list of your current medications and preferred pharmacy, I will show you the Part D plans that will be the most cost effective for you based on your medications.

5. Select any additional coverage you may need, such as dental, vision, hearing, and cancer.

6. Schedule a time to discuss Social Security and Long Term Care planning with me.