Important Medicare Dates and Deadlines You Should Know
Staying on top of Medicare’s enrollment periods and key dates can help you avoid penalties and get the coverage you need, when you need it. Whether you’re enrolling for the first time or reviewing your plan options, here’s a breakdown of the essential Medicare deadlines you should mark on your calendar.
Please note that if you didn’t sign up for Original Medicare when you first were eligible due to having other qualifying insurance (like your employer, for example), you may still have options to sign up for Medicare!
👉For more information on Special Election Periods, please contact Timothy to discuss your options!
Key Medicare Dates to Remember
September: Annual Notice of Change
Each fall, Medicare Advantage and Part D plan members receive an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC). This notice details changes in your plan’s costs, coverage, and service area for the next year.
Tip: Reviewing your ANOC helps you decide whether you should switch plans during the upcoming enrollment period.
October 15 – December 7: Medicare Annual Enrollment Period
During the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), you can:
- Join, drop, or switch a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C)
- Join, drop, or switch a Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug) plan
Changes you make during this window take effect on January 1 of the following year.
January 1 – March 31: General Enrollment Period
If you missed your Initial Enrollment Period and are not eligible for a Special Enrollment Period, you can enroll in Medicare Part A and/or Part B during the General Enrollment Period (GEP).
Coverage starts July 1, and late penalties may apply.
Missed your first opportunity? Learn how to enroll in Medicare after 65.
January 1 – March 31: Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period
Already in a Medicare Advantage Plan but want to make a change? The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period allows you to:
- Switch to another Medicare Advantage Plan
- Drop your Medicare Advantage Plan and return to Original Medicare
- Add a standalone Part D plan if returning to Original Medicare
November – April: Flu Season
Medicare Part B covers one flu shot per season at no cost to you. Protect yourself each year during flu season with a free, Medicare-covered vaccination.
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): Around Your 65th Birthday
Your Initial Enrollment Period spans seven months:
- Three months before your 65th birthday
- Your birthday month
- Three months after your birthday
This is your first chance to enroll in Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D without penalties.
New to Medicare? Learn about the four parts of Medicare here.
Why These Medicare Dates Matter
Missing important deadlines can lead to:
- Late penalties
- Higher premiums
- Delayed coverage
- Limited plan choices
Planning ahead ensures you get the right coverage without unnecessary costs.