Medicare has specific enrollment windows for turning 65, qualifying through disability, retiring, losing coverage, moving, or changing an existing Medicare plan.
What you can enroll in or change depends on your current coverage and why you qualify.
Usually begins three months before the month you turn 65 and ends three months after your birthday month.
Most people under 65 become eligible for Medicare after receiving Social Security Disability Insurance benefits for 24 months.
May be available after certain life events, such as losing current-employment coverage or moving.
People with Medicare can review and change Medicare Advantage or prescription drug coverage.
Only for people who are already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan.
If a 5-star plan is available in your area, you may use this opportunity once during the period.
This is usually the first and most important Medicare enrollment window.
Speak with a licensed Medicare advisor. We’ll help you determine when you may be eligible to enroll, explain your Medicare options, and answer your questions at no cost.
Applying before your birthday month can help you avoid a delayed start to coverage.
Your seven-month Initial Enrollment Period includes the month you turn 65.
You may still enroll, although your coverage start date can depend on when you apply.
Important: The exact start date of coverage depends on when you enroll and your individual circumstances.
This guide is a starting point. Medicare enrollment rules can vary based on your specific event.
Begin with the seven-month Initial Enrollment Period surrounding your birthday month.
Initial Enrollment PeriodYou may have a Special Enrollment Period for Part B and separate deadlines for health or drug plans.
Special Enrollment PeriodUse October 15 through December 7 to review Medicare Advantage and Part D choices.
Annual Open EnrollmentFrom January 1 through March 31, you may make one permitted Medicare Advantage change.
MA Open EnrollmentYou may qualify for Medicare before age 65 after receiving Social Security Disability Insurance benefits for 24 months.
Disability IEPDepending on your circumstances, delaying enrollment can result in:
A move, loss of coverage, change in Medicaid or Extra Help, plan termination, or another qualifying event may create a Special Enrollment Period.
Employer-related Part B enrollment periods and Medicare Advantage or Part D Special Enrollment Periods have different rules and deadlines.
A licensed Medicare advisor can review your dates, current coverage, disability eligibility, life event, and available enrollment opportunities.
Accurate Health Plans is not connected with or endorsed by the United States government or the federal Medicare program. This page provides general educational information and is not a complete description of every Medicare enrollment rule. Eligibility, enrollment timing, and available plans vary by individual circumstances and service area.
