KNOW YOUR DATES
Medicare Enrollment
Deadlines That Matter
Missing a Medicare enrollment deadline isn't like missing a coupon expiration. The consequences can be permanent, including lifetime premium penalties and extended coverage gaps.
KNOW YOUR DATES
Medicare Enrollment
Deadlines That Matter
Missing a Medicare enrollment deadline isn't like missing a coupon expiration. The consequences can be permanent, including lifetime premium penalties and extended coverage gaps. Understanding your specific enrollment windows is one of the most important things you can do as you approach Medicare eligibility.
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
7-MONTH WINDOW AROUND YOUR 65TH BIRTHDAY
When You First Become Eligible
Your IEP begins 3 months before the month you turn 65, includes your birthday month, and extends 3 months after. Enrolling in the first 3 months ensures your coverage starts on time. Waiting until after your birthday month delays coverage by 1–3 months.
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
OCTOBER 15 – DECEMBER 7 EVERY YEAR
Your Annual Window to Switch Plans
AEP is the primary window during which Medicare beneficiaries can switch Medicare Advantage or Part D plans, return to Original Medicare, or join a plan for the first time. All changes take effect January 1. This is when we conduct annual reviews for every client.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment
JANUARY 1 – MARCH 31 EVERY YEAR
One Additional Opportunity to Switch
If you're already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can switch to a different MA plan or return to Original Medicare once during this window. Changes take effect the first day of the following month. You cannot use this period to switch from Original Medicare to MA.
Special Enrollment Periods (SEP)
TRIGGERED BY QUALIFYING LIFE EVENTS
When You Can Make Changes Outside AEP
Certain life events trigger a Special Enrollment Period allowing plan changes outside of standard windows. Common triggers include: moving to a new address outside your plan's service area, losing other health coverage, qualifying for Medicaid, or your plan leaving the Medicare program. Contact us immediately if any of these apply, SEP windows are typically 60 days.
Late Enrollment Penalties — Permanent Consequences
⟶ Part B penalty: 0% added to your premium for every 12-month period you delayed without qualifying coverage — permanent, lasts as long as you have Part B
⟶ Part D penalty: 1% of the national base premium for every month you went without creditable drug coverage — also permanent
⟶ Medigap timing: Miss your 6-month Medigap open enrollment window and insurers can deny coverage or charge more based on health conditions in most states
Start Planning 3–6 Months Early
We recommend reaching out 3 to 6 months before your 65th birthday. That gives us time to map your specific enrollment dates, coordinate with any existing coverage, and ensure everything is in place before your window opens. Contact us anytime, this consultation is always free.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Part D Prescription Plans FAQ
What if I'm still working at 65?
If your employer has 20 or more employees, your group coverage is primary and you can delay Medicare Part B without penalty. If your employer has fewer than 20 employees, Medicare becomes primary at 65 and you should enroll to avoid coverage gaps. We walk through your specific situation.
How do I enroll in Medicare?
Most people enroll through Social Security online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. If you're already receiving Social Security benefits, Parts A and B enrollment is often automatic.
Can I get a Special Enrollment Period if I retire after 65?
Yes, when you lose employer group health coverage due to retirement, you typically have an 8-month SEP to enroll in Part B without penalty, and a separate SEP to enroll in Part D. These windows don't overlap so timing matters. Call us before you retire.
What is the Medigap Open Enrollment Period?
It's the 6-month window that begins when you're 65 or older AND enrolled in Part B. During this window, insurers must accept you regardless of health conditions. After it closes, medical underwriting applies in most states — meaning you could be denied or charged more.
Does COBRA count as creditable coverage for delaying Medicare?
COBRA is generally NOT considered primary coverage if you're eligible for Medicare. Taking COBRA instead of Medicare at 65 can result in late enrollment penalties. This is a common and costly mistake contact us before making any decisions about COBRA and Medicare.
What if I missed my enrollment window?
Contact us immediately. Depending on your situation there may still be options, including Special Enrollment Periods you may qualify for. The sooner you act after missing a deadline, the better your options.