What are the Medicare Enrollment Periods?

The enrollment periods for Medicare are as follows:

1. Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): The IEP is a 7-month period that begins three months before an individual turns 65, includes their birth month, and extends for three months after their birth month. During this period, individuals can enroll in Original Medicare (Part A and/or Part B), Medicare Advantage (Part C), and/or Medicare prescription drug coverage (Part D).
2. General Enrollment Period (GEP): The GEP occurs annually from January 1 to March 31. During this period, individuals who did not enroll in Medicare Part A and/or Part B during their IEP can sign up for coverage. However, late enrollment penalties may apply.
3. Special Enrollment Period (SEP): The SEP allows individuals to enroll in or make changes to their Medicare coverage outside of the IEP and GEP, as long as they meet certain eligibility criteria. For example, individuals who have employer-sponsored health coverage may be eligible for a SEP when they retire or lose their coverage.
4. Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): The AEP occurs annually from October 15 to December 7. During this period, individuals can make changes to their Medicare coverage, such as switching from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage, changing their Medicare Advantage plan, or enrolling in or changing their Medicare prescription drug coverage.

It’s important to note that some individuals may be eligible for additional enrollment periods or have different enrollment periods depending on their circumstances.