Medicare Enrollment Periods: A Quick Guide

Knowing when you can enroll in Medicare is just as important as choosing the right coverage. Medicare has several enrollment periods, and the one that applies to you depends on your situation. Missing an enrollment deadline could result in delayed coverage or late enrollment penalties.

Below is a brief overview of the most common Medicare enrollment periods. Click any section to learn more.

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

Your Initial Enrollment Period is your first opportunity to enroll in Medicare. It begins three months before your 65th birthday month, includes your birthday month, and ends three months after. If you’re still working and have qualifying employer coverage, different rules may apply.

Learn more: Initial Enrollment Period

Medicare Open Enrollment (Annual Enrollment Period)

From October 15 through December 7, people who already have Medicare can review and make changes to their health or prescription drug coverage for the following year.

Learn more: Medicare Open Enrollment

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period

If you’re already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan on January 1, you can make one coverage change between January 1 and March 31 each year.

Learn more: Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period

Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

Certain life events—such as losing employer coverage or moving outside your plan’s service area—may qualify you for a Special Enrollment Period, allowing you to enroll or make changes outside the standard enrollment windows.

Learn more: Special Enrollment Periods

Medigap Open Enrollment Period

If you’re enrolled in Original Medicare and are considering a Medigap policy, you’ll generally have a one-time, six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period that begins when you’re both age 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Part B.

Learn more: Medigap Open Enrollment Period

Need Help?

Not sure which enrollment period applies to you? A licensed Medicare broker can help you understand your options and enrollment timeline so you can make informed decisions about your coverage.