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Important Dates for Medicare Enrollment

The following provides enrollment periods for those signing up for Medicare.

Medicare eligibility begins at age 65. Those who have health care coverage from their employer do not have to enroll in Medicare. However, there are specific enrollment periods and penalties that can apply if enrollment instructions are not followed carefully.

Dates

Who Needs to Enroll?

Comments

Initial Enrollment

Seven-month period:

  • Three months before 65th birthday
  • Birthday month
  • Three months after 65th birthday

Enrollees in Medicare Parts A, B, C and D
  • If you are receiving Social Security benefits prior to age 65, you will be automatically enrolled.
  • Unless you can waive coverage, a late enrollment penalty of 10 percent of the Part B premium is assessed for every 12 months you delay signing up.

Special Enrollment

Within eight months after you stop working

Those about to lose employer coverage and have delayed enrolling in Part B

Separate special enrollment periods also exist for Part C and D plans.

General Enrollment

January 1 to March 31

Those who missed the initial enrollment or special enrollment period for Parts A and B

Coverage becomes effective July 1.

Annual Election

October 15 to December 7

Those who missed the initial enrollment for Part D, or want to change/drop their current drug plan

You have to be enrolled in Parts A and B first.

Medicare Advantage Enrollment

January 1 to March 31

Those who want to join, drop or change a Medicare Advantage Plan


Glossary
Part A is hospital coverage.
Part B is medical insurance.
Part C involves Medicare Advantage plans.
Part D is prescription drug coverage.


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