Important Dates for Medicare Enrollment

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.

Initial Enrollment

Dates:

• Seven month period: three months before 65th birthday
• birthday month
• three months after 65th birthday

Who Needs to Enroll?

• Enrolles in Medicare Parts A, B, C and D

Comments:

• 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

Dates:

• Within eight months after you stop working.

Who Needs to Enroll?

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

Comments:

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

General Enrollment

Dates:

• January 1 to March 31

Who Needs to Enroll?

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

Comments:

• Coverage becomes effective July 1.

Annual Election

Dates:

• October 15 to December 7

Who Needs to Enroll?

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

Comments:

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

Medicare Advantage Enrollment

Dates:

• 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.