Main Street Financial Partners - Medicare Open Enrollment
Planning Today to Protect Tomorrow

How to Enroll in Medicare and Understand Your Coverage Options

Enrolling in Medicare is a straightforward process once you understand the steps and eligibility requirements.

At Main Street Financial Partners, we guide individuals across Allentown, Bethlehem, Whitehall, Easton, Coopersburg, Saucon Valley, and Center Valley, as well as surrounding areas throughout the Lehigh Valley, Northampton County, Bucks County, Montgomery County, and Berks County.

Whether you’re turning 65, receiving disability benefits, or qualifying early due to health conditions, our team helps you successfully navigate Medicare enrollment with clarity and confidence.

Who Is Automatically Enrolled in Medicare?

Turning 65 and Receiving Social Security Benefits

If you’re 65 or older and already receiving Social Security payments, you’ll be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance). Your Medicare card will typically arrive about three months before your 65th birthday, ensuring there’s no gap in coverage.

Enrolling Under Age 65 with a Disability

If you’re under 65 and receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you’ll automatically become eligible for Medicare after a 24 month waiting period. Coverage begins automatically and you’ll receive the same benefits as individuals who enroll at age 65.

Eligibility for End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

Individuals diagnosed with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) are eligible for Medicare immediately without the standard waiting period. This ensures rapid access to vital medical coverage and treatment options.

Understanding Medicare Enrollment Options

After qualifying, you’ll need to decide whether you prefer Original Medicare (Parts A & B) or a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C).

Original Medicare (Parts A & B)

Original Medicare covers hospital care (Part A) and medical services (Part B). It allows you to see any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare anywhere in the U.S. However, you’re typically responsible for 20% of out-of-pocket costs, which can add up without supplemental coverage.

Medicare Advantage (Part C)

Medicare Advantage Plans, offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare, provide the same coverage as Original Medicare plus additional benefits such as:

  • Prescription drug coverage
  • Dental, vision, and hearing care
  • Fitness or wellness programs


You can enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan through Medicare.gov, a private insurance company, or through a Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) appointed health insurance marketplace like Main Street Financial Partners.

Medicare Part D for Prescription Coverage

If you choose Original Medicare, you’ll likely need a Part D Prescription Drug Plan. These plans cover medications and help lower pharmacy costs. You can sign up at Medicare.gov, through a private insurer, or via Main Street Financial Partners for personalized assistance.

When to Enroll in Medicare

The Medicare Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

Your Initial Enrollment Period begins three months before your 65th birthday, includes your birthday month, and continues for three months after. This seven month window is the ideal time to enroll especially if you’re considering a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) or Part D for prescription coverage.

Failing to enroll during your IEP may result in late enrollment penalties or delays in coverage.

Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)

If you miss your IEP, you can enroll or make changes during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period, which runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. This is your opportunity to:

  • Switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage
  • Change your Medicare Advantage Plan
  • Add or drop Part D prescription drug coverage

Get Help with Medicare Enrollment

Navigating how to enroll in Medicare can feel complex but you don’t have to do it alone. Our licensed advisors at Main Street Financial Partners will help you understand your eligibility, compare plans, and complete your enrollment with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or at a Social Security office during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP).

If you receive Social Security, you’re typically auto-enrolled in Parts A and B. Otherwise, you must apply.

Seven months total—three months before your 65th birthday month, your birthday month, and three months after.

You may delay Part B (and Part D) if you have creditable employer coverage. Confirm with HR to avoid penalties.

Social Security number, proof of age and citizenship/lawful presence, and employer coverage details if applicable.

From Oct 15–Dec 7, you can join, switch, or drop Medicare Advantage or Part D plans. Changes start Jan 1.

Jan 1–Mar 31 for Part B if you missed IEP. Late penalties may apply; coverage effective timing varies.

Use Medicare.gov, enroll directly with a plan, or get Medicare enrollment help from Main Street Financial Partners.

Start dates depend on when you enroll relative to your birthday month. AEP changes begin Jan 1.

We verify eligibility, compare plans, and submit applications accurately to avoid gaps or penalties.

Client Testimonials

"I had a great experience working with Elizabeth Snyder. They made the process of moving my funds smooth, secure, and stress-free. Their communication was clear, and they were always available to answer my questions. I felt confident in their expertise and appreciated the level of care and professionalism throughout. Highly recommended!"
Jane H.
"After working with Elizabeth Snyder, owner of Main Street Financial for approximately 2 years, I wanted to share my experience for anyone considering their services. I have found Elizabeth’s knowledge base of risk vs. benefit in regards to financial planning to be extremely helpful and appreciated her recommendations of varying options for my particular needs to be spot on. Her knowledge base of the market has provided me with confidence for my long-term plan and I feel assured their advice and fiduciary commitment is focused on my best interest and not theirs.  Additionally, I would be amiss to not mention members of her team Bethany and Nancy, who create a strong backbone and presence in the company."
Deborah B.
"I just want to “thank you” for all your help over the years. My Dick learned so much from your classes back at the Bethlehem location. I have been covered w/good sound advice from you dear people. Thank you so very much."
Jane P.

The Right Medicare Plan Starts with the Right Guidance.

Our licensed advisors take the guesswork out of Medicare by helping you evaluate your coverage, avoid costly gaps, and choose the plan that fits your health and budget best.