– Commencement enrollment span
The commencement enrollment span extends for seven months and encompasses three months preceding your 65th birthday, the month you turn 65, and the following three months post your birthday.
– Yearly selection timeframe
The yearly Medicare selection timeframe, also known as the AEP, occurs annually from October 15 to December 7. In this span, you’re allowed to enroll in, discontinue, or modify your Medicare plan. Any plan changes made during the AEP will take effect on January 1 of the next calendar year.
– Medicare Advantage open enrollment
This unique enrollment opportunity runs from January 1 to March 31. You should already be part of a Medicare Advantage plan as of January 1 to participate. You have the option to switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan, with or without prescription drug coverage, or revert to Original Medicare and sign up for Part D coverage. However, moving from one prescription drug plan to another is not permitted. There’s also no guaranteed issue right for Medigap during this period.
– General enrollment span
Every year, from January 1 to March 31, there’s an enrollment span for those who missed their initial chance to sign up for Medicare Part A and Part B when first eligible, and who do not qualify for a special enrollment period. Be aware that late penalties might apply. Enrollment for Medicare Advantage (Part C) is then available from April 1 through June 30, with coverage starting on July 1.
– Special enrollment period
Under certain circumstances, you might be able to sign up for or alter your plan outside the usual initial enrollment timeline. Life changes that might trigger this special enrollment period include:
- Retirement and exiting your employer or union’s health plan.
- Relocating outside your current health plan’s area of service.
The timing of your enrollment influences the start of your coverage. For further details on enrollment periods and to check your eligibility, please visit medicare.gov/sign-up-change-plans.
