Can I Sign Up for Medicare Before Taking Social Security?

YES.

You can sign up for Medicare even though you haven't yet signed up for Social Security. In fact, delaying Social Security retirement benefits may work to your advantage.

However, you do not want to delay signing up for Medicare benefits. But, if you fail to sign up for Medicare during your initial enrollment period, you'll face a 10 percent increase in your Part B premiums that could raise your healthcare costs for life.