Know these key Medicare dates
When can you sign up for Medicare? When can you switch plans if your health needs have changed? Understanding Medicare’s enrollment periods helps you get the coverage you need, when you need it.
If you’re signing up for Medicare for the first time, your enrollment window is unique to you and generally based on your birthday month. Here’s a guideline for what timeframe applies to you.
Medicare Key Dates
When do I sign up for Medicare for the first time?
Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) occurs around your 65th birthday, including the three months before and the three months after it. For example, if your birthday is in June, your IEP would be from March to September.
The only exception is if your birthday is on the first of the month; then, it starts four months before you turn 65 and ends two months after the month you turn 65.
When can I renew or change my Medicare plan?
Once you’re enrolled in Medicare, there are set dates for when you are allowed to change your plan.
During the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) – Oct. 15 through Dec. 7 – all Medicare beneficiaries have the chance to choose plans for the following calendar year. This is the time for you to decide if your current plan fits your budget and your health needs.
If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can participate in the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP), which is Jan. 1 through March 31. You can take the following steps and changes will be effective on the first day of the following month:
- Switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan
- Drop your Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare (Parts A and B)
- Sign up for a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan, if you return to Original Medicare
Keep in mind that you can only switch plans once during this period.
Special Enrollment Periods are times when you can sign up for Medicare or change your plan if you qualify due to a life event like moving or retiring.
Looking to learn more? Whether you’re enrolling in Medicare for the first time, looking to change coverage, or helping a loved one with their Medicare decisions, visit MedicareEducation.com for resources to help you prepare and make confident Medicare decisions.
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