“Welcome to Medicare” package (not automatically enrolled)
What is it?
This welcome package is the first mail you'll get from Medicare. It includes a letter, booklet, and Medicare card. The booklet explains important decisions you need to make now that you have Medicare.
It's sent to people who:
- Go to Social Security to sign up for Medicare
- First sign up for Social Security retirement benefits (at age 65 or older)
- Automatically get Medicare with less than 3 months before coverage starts (usually for people under age 65 with certain disabilities)
When should I get it?
About 2 weeks after you sign up for Medicare or Social Security benefits. If you get Medicare automatically based on disability, you'll get this package about 2 weeks after Social Security approves your benefits.
Who sends it?
Medicare
What should I do if I get these materials?
Read the materials carefully as soon as you get them because they explain important decisions that you should make now.
Download a sample
Get this package in Spanish
Publication, product, or other number
Product No. 12020
Unofficial name
"Welcome to Medicare" package