When to apply for Medicare
There are several times to enroll in Medicare, and each of those times has certain rules around applying and when coverage will begin. Understanding when to enroll and the best time to do so is an integral part of getting Medicare.
Initial Enrollment Period
The Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is the first time to sign up for Medicare and join Parts A, B, C and D during this time:
3 months before 65th birthday,
Birthday month, and
3 months after birthday.
Coverage will start no sooner than 65th birthday month.
Example: If birthday is in July, Initial Enrollment Period begins April 1 and ends October 31.
If the enrollment period is missed, there is another chance to enroll but waiting could result in late penalties and a period without health coverage.
Special Enrollment Period
There are Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) that apply when eligible for delayed enrollment in Medicare Parts A, B, C & D. These SEPs are only available for certain circumstances.
General Enrollment Period
If the Initial Enrollment Period or Special Enrollment Period is missed, there is another chance to enroll.
Sign up for Medicare Parts A & B can also happen between January 1 and March 31 each year. Medicare coverage would begin on July 1 of the same year.
It is important to note that if Part A is needed during this time, enrollment in Part B is required at this time as well.
Open Enrollment Period
The Open Enrollment Period – sometimes called the Annual Election Period or Annual Coordinated Enrollment Period – runs each year from October 15 to December 7. During this time,
Anyone with Medicare Parts A & B can switch to a Part C plan.
Anyone with Medicare Part C can switch back to Parts A & B.
Anyone who has or is signing up for Medicare Parts A or B can join, drop or switch a Part D prescription drug plan.
Anyone with Medicare Part C can switch to a new Part C plan.
Coverage will start on January 1 of the following year.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period
The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period provides additional opportunities to change Medicare Advantage plans outside the Annual Election Period (October 15 – December 7). Learn more about the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period
The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period provides additional opportunities to change Medicare Advantage plans outside the Annual Election Period (October 15 – December 7). Learn more about the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period.