Medicare
Medicare Turning 65 Checklist for Texas Residents
Published February 12, 2026 · By Joseph Stevens
Quick answerTexas residents turning 65 have a 7-month Initial Enrollment Period — the 3 months before, the month of, and the 3 months after their 65th birthday. The fastest path: enroll in Parts A & B at SSA.gov, then choose either a Medicare Supplement + Part D OR a Medicare Advantage plan. Both are guaranteed-issue during your IEP regardless of health.
Three months before your 65th birthday
- Decide whether to delay Part B if you have active employer coverage past 65
- Confirm your prescription drug list and preferred pharmacies
- List your current doctors and verify Medicare acceptance
The month you turn 65
- Enroll in Original Medicare (Parts A & B) at SSA.gov
- Compare Medicare Supplement vs Medicare Advantage with a licensed agent
- Pick a stand-alone Part D plan if you go the Supplement route
After enrollment
Keep your Medicare card and your supplement/advantage card together. Schedule your Welcome to Medicare visit within the first 12 months — it's covered at 100%.
Call 800-214-8976 for a free Texas Medicare review. We're federally certified and represent every major Medicare carrier.
FAQs
Can I switch from Advantage to Supplement later?
Yes, but outside your IEP and certain trial rights, Supplement carriers can medically underwrite you. The safest time to lock in a Supplement is during your IEP or guaranteed-issue Open Enrollment around your 65th birthday.
Do I need Part D if I'm healthy?
Yes — if you don't have creditable drug coverage from another source, skipping Part D triggers a lifetime late-enrollment penalty when you eventually enroll.
Need help applying this to your situation?
Free, no-pressure call with a licensed Texas agent.