Medicare Enrollment Periods – When to Sign Up (and Why It Matters)
Medicare has specific enrollment windows. Miss one, and you could face delays in coverage — or even lifetime penalties.
I’m Jake McGeoy, your local Medicare supplemental agent, and I’m here to make sure you sign up at the right time with no surprises.
1. Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
Your first chance to enroll in Medicare.
- Starts 3 months before the month you turn 65
- Includes your birthday month
- Ends 3 months after your birthday month Tip: Enroll early to avoid delays in coverage starting.
2. Special Enrollment Period (SEP)
- For those who delay Medicare because they have employer or union health coverage.
- You have 8 months after losing coverage (or stopping work, whichever comes first) to sign up for Medicare Part B without a penalty.
- You may also get a special window for Part D or Medicare Advantage.
3. General Enrollment Period (GEP)
If you miss both your IEP and SEP, you can enroll between:
- January 1 – March 31
- Coverage starts July 1
- Late enrollment penalties may apply
4. Medicare Advantage & Part D Annual Election Period (AEP)
Every year, October 15 – December 7, you can:
- Join, switch, or drop a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan
- Add, drop, or change your Part D prescription drug coverage
- Changes take effect January 1 of the following year
5. Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP)
From January 1 – March 31 (if you already have Medicare Advantage):
- Switch to another Medicare Advantage plan
- Drop your plan and return to Original Medicare (with or without Part D)
Why This Matters
Each period comes with rules, deadlines, and consequences. Missing yours can mean higher costs or waiting months for coverage to start. That’s where I come in — I track your dates and guide you through every step. Avoid penalties and gaps in coverage. Call Jake McGeoy at 443-797-3923 (TTY 711) for a free review of your Medicare enrollment options.