Medicare Enrollment Windows
Find your IEP, AEP, and Special Enrollment Periods
Understanding Enrollment Periods
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
A 7-month window that starts 3 months before the month you turn 65, includes your birthday month, and ends 3 months after. This is your first chance to enroll in Medicare without penalties.
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
October 15 – December 7 each year. During this time, you can switch Medicare Advantage plans, change Part D plans, or switch between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage.
Open Enrollment Period (OEP)
January 1 – March 31 each year. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, you can switch to another MA plan or go back to Original Medicare (and join a Part D plan).
Special Enrollment Period (SEP)
Triggered by life events like losing employer coverage, moving, or qualifying for Medicaid. You typically have 2-8 months to enroll depending on the qualifying event.
Timing matters for Medicare
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