Medicare has set times when you can sign up or make changes. Knowing these windows helps you avoid gaps in coverage and late enrollment penalties. Here is a plain-language overview of each one.
We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 8 organizations which offer 60 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.
Boyer Insurance Services is a licensed, independent insurance agency. We are not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) or the federal Medicare program.
Initial Enrollment Period
This is your first chance to sign up for Parts A and B. It is a seven-month window around your 65th birthday: three months before your birthday month, your birthday month and three months after. Learn more on our turning 65 page.
General Enrollment Period
If you missed your Initial Enrollment Period and do not qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, you can sign up for Parts A and B between January 1 and March 31 each year. Coverage starts the first day of the month after you sign up. A late enrollment penalty may apply.
Special Enrollment Periods
Certain life events open a Special Enrollment Period. The most common one is for people who had health coverage through their own or a spouse’s current employment.
- You generally have eight months to sign up for Part B after the employment or the group coverage ends, whichever happens first.
- You generally have two full months after the month your employer coverage ends to join a Medicare Advantage plan or a Part D plan.
Other events, such as moving out of your plan’s service area, can also open a Special Enrollment Period. See our guide to Medicare and employer coverage.
Annual Open Enrollment Period
From October 15 to December 7 each year, people with Medicare can review and change their coverage. During this time you can switch between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, change Medicare Advantage plans, or join, switch or drop a Part D plan. Changes take effect January 1.
Plans can change their costs, drug lists and networks each year. Reading your plan’s Annual Notice of Change each fall is a good habit.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period
From January 1 to March 31, people already in a Medicare Advantage plan can make one change. You can switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan, or return to Original Medicare and join a Part D plan.
Medigap Open Enrollment Period
Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period lasts six months. It starts the first month you are both 65 or older and enrolled in Part B. During this window, insurance companies generally cannot deny you a Medicare Supplement or charge you more because of your health. Read more about Medicare Supplement insurance.
A Note on Dates and Rules
Medicare rules and dates can change. Before you act, it is wise to confirm the current rules at Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE, or to talk with a licensed agent.
Talk With Us About Your Situation
Reading about Medicare enrollment is a good start. Your own situation is what really matters. If you would like to talk through your options, call us at 310-440-0281 or toll free at (844) 532-9009, or contact us here. We will listen first, answer your questions and explain the choices available to you. There is no obligation to enroll in anything.