Timing is everything with Medicare. Miss the right window and you could face permanent premium penalties or gaps in coverage. Here’s every enrollment period explained.

Need help? Call 1-888-781-6026 — our licensed agents walk you through enrollment at no charge.

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

A 7-month window centered around your 65th birthday: 3 months before, your birthday month, and 3 months after. This is when you first become eligible for Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D.

General Enrollment Period (GEP)

If you missed your IEP: January 1 – March 31 each year. Coverage begins July 1. You may face a late enrollment penalty for Part B (10% per year delayed) — permanent.

Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

You qualify for an SEP if you: lose employer or union health coverage, move to a new area affecting your plan options, or experience other qualifying life events. SEPs typically give you 2-3 months to enroll without penalty.

Annual Open Enrollment Period (AEP)

October 15 – December 7 each year. Switch between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare, switch Part D plans, or join/drop Part D. Changes take effect January 1.

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (MA OEP)

January 1 – March 31 each year. If you’re in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can switch plans or return to Original Medicare.

Medigap Open Enrollment Period

6-month period starting the month you turn 65 and enroll in Part B. During this window, insurers must sell you any Medigap plan at the best available rate — no health questions, no denial. Outside this window, medical underwriting applies.

Key Penalties to Avoid

• Part B late penalty: 10% per 12-month delay, permanent
• Part D late penalty: 1% of national base premium per month delayed, permanent

Don’t navigate enrollment alone. Call 1-888-781-6026 — our agents ensure you enroll at the right time with no costly mistakes.