Are There Other Times I Can Enroll?

Once you’re enrolled in Medicare, your enrollment options may be different depending on the time of the year.

• Open Enrollment Period (OEP)
  When you enroll in a Medicare plan, your new coverage starts on January 1 of the year following your enrollment. However, you have 3 months to change your coverage if you’re not happy with your plan. It’s called the Open Enrollment Period, and it lasts from January through March. You can choose a new plan and switch without any penalty during the Open Enrollment period. Good to know!

• Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) (From October 15 – December 7)
  AEP takes place at the same time each year. During this period, you can enroll, disenroll — or change your Medicare plans (Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement, or prescription drug plan). You also have the option to return to Original Medicare. Elections made during AEP are effective on January 1 of the following year.

• “Lock-in Period” (From April 1 – October 14)
  Between April 1 and October 14, you cannot change coverage, unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). If you do not qualify for an SEP, you’ll have to wait until AEP to elect new coverage.

• Special Enrollment Period (SEP) (Timing is dependent)
  During an SEP, you can enroll, disenroll or change your coverage because of personal circumstances. Reasons for qualifying for an SEP may include: you’ve moved, you became eligible for Medicare and Medicaid, you’re leaving your employer group health plan.

• Enrolling After 65?
  Learn what your options are.