Enrollment Periods

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1. Initial Enrollment Period (IEP):

• When: Generally, when you turn 65.
• Duration: Lasts for 7 months, starting 3 months before you turn 65 and ending 3 months after the month you turn 65.
• Coverage Start:
  • Part A: Starts the month you turn 65 (or the month before if your birthday is on the first of the month).
  • Part B (and Premium-Part A): Coverage starts based on the month you sign up:
    • Before the month you turn 65: The month you turn 65.
    • During the month you turn 65 or the 3 months after: The next month.
• Avoid the Penalty: Missing the IEP may result in a monthly late enrollment penalty for Part B coverage.
• If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA), there are specific enrollment rules after the IEP!
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 2. Annual Enrollment Period (AEP):

• When: AEP runs from October 15 to December 7 each year.
• Action: During AEP, you can add, switch, or drop your Part D coverage.
• Purpose: It allows changes to your Medicare coverage, including your Part D prescription drug plan.

Remember, understanding these enrollment periods helps you avoid the Medicare Part D late enrollment penalty, which can be costly.

 3. General Enrollment Period (GEP):

• When: Between January 1 and March 31 each year.
• Coverage Start: The month after you sign up.
• Purpose: Allows enrollment for those who missed their IEP.
• Penalty:  You might pay a late enrollment penalty if you don't qualify for a SEP

4.  Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MAOEP):

• When: January 1 through March 31 each year.
• Eligibility: This applies to people who already have Medicare Advantage plans.
• Action:  During the MAOEP, you can switch to a different Medicare Advantage Plan or switch to Original Medicare and join a separate Medicare drug plan.  Some requirements may need to be met.

5.  Special Enrollment Period (SEP):

• When: Available after the IEP.
• Eligibility: Certain situations allow you to sign up for Part B (and Premium-Part A) without a late enrollment penalty.
• Limited Time: SEP is only available for specific circumstances.
• Missing a SEP means waiting for the next GEP and potentially paying a late enrollment penalty.