Medicare enrollment can feel overwhelming, but it really comes down to four key windows: the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP), the General Enrollment Period (GEP), Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs), and the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP).
Your Initial Enrollment Period is the 7-month window around your 65th birthday — three months before, the month of, and three months after. Signing up during this window helps you avoid late-enrollment penalties on Parts B and D.
If you miss your IEP and don't qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, you'll need to wait for the General Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31) with coverage starting the month after you enroll.
Special Enrollment Periods are triggered by qualifying life events — losing employer coverage, moving, or losing other creditable drug coverage. These windows are time-limited, so act quickly.
Finally, the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7) is your yearly chance to review and change Medicare Advantage and Part D plans. Even if you're happy with your plan, it's worth a review every year.
If any of this feels confusing, that's exactly what I'm here for. Reach out and we'll walk through your timeline together.