Turning 65 in Virginia comes with a 7-month Initial Enrollment Period — three months before your birthday month, the month itself, and three months after. Here's the calm version.
- 3 months before 65: review options and decide between Original Medicare, Advantage, and Supplement.
- Birthday month: coverage typically starts the first of your birthday month if you enrolled early.
- After enrollment: pick a Part D plan if you went with Original Medicare or a Medigap policy.
- Anytime: revisit your plan during Annual Enrollment (Oct 15 – Dec 7) each year.
If you're already getting Social Security, you'll usually be auto-enrolled in Parts A and B. If not, you'll need to enroll yourself through Social Security.
From there, decide your route: Original Medicare + Medigap + Part D, or a Medicare Advantage plan that bundles benefits. Local plan availability in Hampton Roads, Tidewater, and Williamsburg shapes what's actually on the table for you.
A 30-minute conversation usually clears it up. Bring your prescription list, your doctors, and any questions about travel or specialty care.
Want to talk this through?
30 minutes, on your schedule. No pressure to enroll.
Schedule a Medicare ReviewThis article is for general education and does not constitute medical, legal, or financial advice. Plan availability varies by location and carrier.