When to Enroll in Medicare: Key Deadlines and Enrollment Periods

Timing is everything when it comes to Medicare. Enrolling at the right time can save you money and guarantee you the coverage you need. Missing a deadline could mean penalties that last a lifetime. Understanding the different enrollment periods will help you avoid costly mistakes.

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
Your first chance to enroll in Medicare is called the Initial Enrollment Period. It’s a 7-month window that begins three months before the month you turn 65, includes your birthday month, and extends for three months after. During this time, you can sign up for Part A and Part B, and you can choose to add a Medicare Advantage or Part D prescription drug plan.

Failing to enroll during your IEP, if you don’t have other qualifying coverage (like employer insurance), can lead to permanent penalties. For example, your Part B premium could go up by 10% for every year you delayed signing up.

Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
Every year from October 15 to December 7, you have the chance to review your Medicare coverage and make changes. During AEP, you can switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage (or vice versa), change Advantage plans, or add/change a Part D plan. Any changes you make will go into effect on January 1 of the following year.

General Enrollment Period (GEP)
If you missed your Initial Enrollment and don’t qualify for a Special Enrollment, you can sign up for Medicare between January 1 and March 31. However, your coverage won’t start until July 1, and late penalties may apply.

Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs)
Life happens, and Medicare recognizes that. If you move to a new state, lose employer coverage, qualify for Medicaid, or experience other life changes, you may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period. SEPs allow you to make changes outside of the standard enrollment windows.

Why This Matters
Medicare isn’t flexible about deadlines, and missing them can mean paying more for the rest of your life. Working with a licensed Medicare agent ensures you know exactly when to act and what your options are.