[Zeke]

I hope you signed up for Medicare or have been insured since turning 65. Medicare assigns a lifetime penalty of 10% per year of not signing up unless you can prove you were covered. While 10% might not seem much over the basic cost ($160ish, maybe less for folks at 65), 30 % after year 3 hurts.

When you take your benefits is up to you and you get credit for each year not taking them after 65 but Medicare is not an option, you must take it and pay for it unless you get a Medicare advantage plan, in which case many providers pick up your costs. Part A is no cost and is automatically in force from the time you reach 65. You still have to contact them.