Medicare Enrollment Periods

Choosing the right time to enroll is just as important as choosing the right plan.

Importance of Enrollment Periods

Medicare has specific enrollment windows, and missing one could mean delays, penalties, or gaps in coverage. That’s why understanding these periods and having the right guidance matters.

Here’s a breakdown of the key Medicare enrollment periods:

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
  • Who it’s for: People turning 65 or becoming newly eligible for Medicare.
  • When it happens: A 7-month window — 3 months before your 65th birthday, your birthday month, and 3 months after.
  • What you can do: Enroll in Original Medicare (Part A & B), Medicare Advantage (Part C), and/or Medicare Part D
  • Why it matters: Missing this window may lead to late-enrollment penalties and limited coverage options.
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) – October 15 to December 7
  • Who it’s for: Anyone already enrolled in Medicare.
  • What you can do:
    i) Switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage
    ii) Change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another
    iii) Join, drop, or switch a Part D Prescription Drug Plan.
  • Why it matters: Changes made during this time take effect on January 1 of the following year.
Open Enrollment Period (OEP) – January 1 to March 31
  • Who it’s for: People currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan.
  • What you can do:
    i) Switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan.
    ii) Drop Medicare Advantage and return to Original Medicare (with the option to add a Part D plan).
  • Why it matters: It’s a second chance to make adjustments if your plan doesn’t meet your needs.
Special Enrollment Periods (SEP)
  • Who it’s for: People with qualifying life events.
  • When it happens: Anytime, depending on circumstances.
  • Qualifying situations include:
    i) Moving to a new service area. ii) Losing employer or union health coverage. iii) Gaining eligibility for Medicaid or Extra Help. iv) Other life changes recognized by Medicare.
  • Why it matters: SEP gives you flexibility to update your coverage when life changes.

Why Work With Us During Enrollment?

  • We remind you of key deadlines so you never miss an opportunity.
  • We explain your choices in simple terms—no confusing jargon.
  • We connect you with trusted insurance carriers to compare plans side by side.
  • We make sure you feel confident in your decision—before you enroll.
Call Us (248) 873-6497

Frequently Asked Questions

We connect customers with carriers that offer:

  • Medicare Advantage (Part C) – all-in-one coverage that may include extra benefits.

  • Medicare Supplement (Medigap) – coverage that helps pay costs not covered by Original Medicare.

  • Medicare Part D – prescription drug coverage.

Most people become eligible at age 65. Some may qualify earlier due to disability or certain health conditions. If you’re not sure, we can guide you through eligibility requirements and help you understand your options.

There are specific Medicare enrollment periods:

  • Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): Around your 65th birthday.

  • Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): October 15 – December 7 each year.

  • Open Enrollment Period (OEP): January 1 – March 31 for those in Medicare Advantage.

  • Special Enrollment Periods (SEP): For qualifying life events.

We’ll help you identify which period applies to you.

It helps to have:

  • Your current Medicare card (if already enrolled).

  • A list of your prescriptions.

  • Information about your preferred doctors or providers.

  • Your budget or coverage priorities.

This way, carriers can show you plans that fit your needs.

Yes! Many people adjust their coverage during Annual or Open Enrollment Periods. We’ll connect you with carriers so you can explore switching plans or adding coverage.

It’s simple:

  1. We listen to your needs.

  2. We explain your options in plain language.

  3. We connect you with trusted carriers who can help you enroll.

No. Our guidance is completely free. You don’t pay us anything – we simply connect you with carriers who can help you enroll in a plan.