How Do I Apply for Medicare?
Plain-English Medicare guidance from an independent expert. Learn how to apply for Part A and Part B, compare your coverage options, and avoid costly mistakes — before you enroll.
Free consultation. Independent agent — access to multiple carriers.
What's Your Medicare Situation?
Choose the path that fits your situation to get the most relevant information.
I'm Turning 65
Learn your enrollment window and what to do first.
I'm Already on Social Security
You may be enrolled automatically — find out.
I'm Still Working
Employer coverage may let you delay — understand the rules.
I'm Retired Military / TRICARE
TRICARE For Life requires Part A and Part B.
I Use VA Health Care
VA coverage is NOT the same as Medicare — know the difference.
I Need Drug Coverage Help
Part D options, creditable coverage, and penalties explained.
Medigap vs Advantage
Compare your supplemental coverage options side by side.
I'm Worried About Penalties
Understand Part B and Part D late enrollment penalties.
Medicare Part A and Part B — The Basics
Original Medicare has two main parts. Here's what each one covers.
Medicare Part A
Hospital Insurance
- ✓ Inpatient hospital stays
- ✓ Skilled nursing facility care
- ✓ Hospice care
- ✓ Some home health care
Most people pay $0 premium for Part A if they worked 40+ quarters.
Learn MoreMedicare Part B
Medical Insurance
- ✓ Doctor visits and outpatient care
- ✓ Preventive services
- ✓ Durable medical equipment
- ✓ Mental health services
Standard 2026 premium: $202.9/month. Part B has a late enrollment penalty.
Learn More⚠️ Watch Out: Part B Has a Late Enrollment Penalty
If you don't enroll in Part B when first eligible and don't have a qualifying reason to delay, you may face a permanent 10% penalty per year delayed. Calculate your potential penalty →
Turning 65 and Not Sure How to Apply for Medicare?
Darin Weidauer can walk you through every step — from applying to comparing your coverage options. Independent, objective, and free.
Not a government website. Independent agent — access to multiple carriers.
Meet Darin Weidauer, MBA, MDR
Darin Weidauer is an independent Medicare specialist with advanced training in gerontology and Social Security analysis. As a veteran himself, he understands the unique Medicare questions facing military families and VA users.
As an independent agent, Darin is not tied to any single insurance company. That means he can objectively compare options from multiple carriers to find the plan that fits your doctors, prescriptions, budget, and lifestyle — not just the plan one company wants to sell you.
Medicare Penalty Calculators
Find out if you may owe a late enrollment penalty — and how much it could cost.
Turning 65 Medicare Checklist
Not ready to call yet? Download the free 12-step Medicare enrollment checklist and start preparing at your own pace.
- Know your Initial Enrollment Period
- Understand automatic vs. active enrollment
- Check if your coverage is creditable
- Compare Medigap vs Medicare Advantage
- Avoid late enrollment penalties
Get Personalized Medicare Help
Have questions? Ready to compare options? Fill out the form and Darin will reach out personally to help you navigate Medicare.
Personalized Guidance
Get answers specific to your situation — not generic advice.
Multiple Carrier Options
As an independent agent, Darin compares plans from multiple companies.
No Cost to You
Independent agents are compensated by insurance companies, not by you.
Veteran & TRICARE Expertise
Darin understands the unique rules for veterans and military families.
Get Personalized Medicare Help
Fill out this form and Darin will reach out to help you navigate your Medicare options.
Don't Guess on Medicare. Get Expert Help.
Talk to Darin before a penalty or coverage mistake costs you money. Free, independent, and objective.
Not a government website. Independent agent — access to multiple carriers.