Medicare 101
Medicare Enrollment Periods
There are a few key windows to enroll in or change Medicare. Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is the 7 months around your 65th birthday. The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) runs Oct 15–Dec 7 each year for plan changes. Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) open for qualifying life events like moving or losing coverage.
Avoiding penalties
Part B and Part D have different exceptions and deadlines. Current-employment group health coverage may qualify you for a Part B Special Enrollment Period; creditable prescription drug coverage protects against a Part D coverage gap. COBRA does not extend the Part B window. Confirm your specific dates before delaying enrollment.
Questions, answered
When is Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period?
October 15 to December 7 each year. Changes you make take effect January 1. Review your Annual Notice of Change and compare available options with your current needs. We can help review plans we represent; we do not offer every plan available in your area.
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