For most people in the U.S., you become eligible for Medicare when you turn age 65, and the months leading up to your 65th birthday are critical for your Medicare health care coverage.

There are many decisions for you to make – and it is important to make them on time. Understanding your Medicare options will help you avoid complications and the financial penalties that could occur if you miss a deadline.

Here are four simple steps you can take to feel prepared and on track:

• Learn about your options. Visit our Medicare New to Medicare resource page to get started.  
• Download our buyer’s guide. This free resource provides key health insurance terms, information on health reform, the five criteria to use when shopping for health insurance and more.
• Attend a free Sanford Health Plan in-person or virtual event to determine your Medicare options, get your questions answered from your local Sanford Health Plan team. Registration is encouraged but not required.
• Working past age 65? Learn your Medicare options if you are going to continue working so you can get the best coverage.

When it’s time for Medicare, Sanford Health Plan is with you every step of the way. Contact a Sanford Health Plan licensed agent at (888) 535-4831 (TTY: 711) on Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. CT, excluding holidays, for more information.

Sanford Health Plan and Sanford Health Plan of Minnesota have HMO and PPO plans with a Medicare contract. Sanford Health Plan D-SNPs have contracts with State Medicaid programs. Sanford Health Plan complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, or any other classification protected under the law. Medicare evaluates plans based on a 5-star rating system. Star Ratings are calculated each year and may change from one year to the next. Call (888) 605-9277 ( TTY: 711) for more information and for accommodations of persons with special needs at meetings.

CMS ID Number: H8385_527-414-939-PY2025-ND-SD-IA_M, H3186_527-414-939-PY2025-MN_M 527-414-939 Rev. 11/24