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Medicare Enrollment
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If you’re turning 65, or you’re already on Medicare, you may be wondering how to enroll. The process can be confusing, but we’re here to help. In this post, we’ll go over the basics of Medicare enrollment so that you can make an informed decision about your coverage. Keep reading to learn more!

When can I enroll in Medicare Part A and Part B coverage?

Individuals who qualify for premium-free Part A can enroll at any time after they become eligible, but those who want premium Part A, Part B, or both must do so during designated enrollment periods as outlined by law. These include the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP), General Enrollment Period (GEP), and Special Enrollment Period (SEP).

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

During the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP), individuals can enroll in Medicare Part A and Part B for a 7-month period starting 3 months before the month they turn 65 and ending 3 months after their birthday.

For those under 65 who become eligible for Medicare based on a disability, the IEP starts 3 months before the 25th month of disability benefits and includes the 25th month, ending 3 months after that. The IEP for those with ESRD and ALS may vary. Coverage will start the month after enrollment during the IEP. Disabled individuals are automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B after receiving disability benefits from Social Security for 24 months.

It’s important to note that if someone does not enroll in Part B or premium Part A when first eligible, they may have to pay a late enrollment penalty. The Part B penalty is ongoing as long as the person has Part B.

General Enrollment Period (GEP)

The General Enrollment Period (GEP) is a 3-month window that takes place annually from January 1st to March 31st. Individuals who enroll during this period will have their Part B and premium Part A coverage start the following month.

Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

The Special Enrollment Period (SEP) allows individuals to enroll in Part B and premium Part A without incurring a late enrollment penalty in certain situations. However, it is only available for a limited time. If a person misses the SEP, they will have to wait for the next GEP and may be subject to a monthly late enrollment penalty. Coverage will begin the month following enrollment during the SEP.

How do I know if I’m eligible for Medicare coverage?

Knowing whether or not you are eligible for Medicare coverage and what options are available to you can be confusing.

Anyone over the age of 65 is eligible to sign up for Medicare Part A and B coverage, regardless of income or health status.
Those with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) can also qualify, as long as they pay a monthly premium. In addition to those over 65, those on disability benefits from Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board may qualify.
If you are under 65 but have Lou Gehrig’s disease or receive disability benefits from Social Security for 24 months, then you can also get Original Medicare Part A and Part B coverage even though you may be required to pay a premium for Part A.

It’s important to contact your local Social Security office or go online to find out if you qualify for Medicare and in what way before your 65th birthday or the seven-month Initial Enrollment Period starting three months before the month of your 65th birthday, whichever comes first.

You can also choose from a variety of Medicare Advantage plans that suit your needs best when signing up for coverage, such as Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs), Special Needs Plans (SNPs), Private Fee-for-Service Plans (PFFS), and Medical Savings Accounts (MSAs).

How do I sign up for Medicare coverage?

Medicare coverage is available to those age 65 and older as well as certain individuals under the age of 65 with disabilities. Signing up for Medicare is an important step in ensuring you have the health care coverage you need, so it’s important to understand your options.

Luckily, signing up is relatively simple. Individuals already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits will be automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B, which cover hospital services and medical care respectively. Otherwise, you can visit the Social Security Administration website or call 1-800-772-1213 for more information about how to sign up for Medicare.

It’s best to start the process three months before you are eligible if you want coverage to start when you turn 65. But don’t worry– even if you miss this deadline, there are still plenty of other ways to get covered!