When Can I Enroll in Medicare?

Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is the seven-month window around your 65th birthday: the three months before, your birthday month, and the three months after. Enrolling here avoids late penalties and coverage gaps.

If you're still working past 65 with creditable employer coverage, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) when that coverage ends. This lets you enroll in Part B without a late penalty.

Missed your IEP and don't qualify for an SEP? The General Enrollment Period runs January 1 to March 31 each year, with coverage starting the month after you sign up — but late penalties may apply.

Already on Medicare? The Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7) lets you switch between Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Part D plans for the upcoming year. We help clients review their plans every fall.