Initial Enrollment Period
When you turn 65, or otherwise become eligible for Medicare, you'll have your Initial Enrollment Period. Your Initial Enrollment Period begins three months before and ends three months after the month of your 65th birthday (a seven-month window). If you have employer or plan-sponsored coverage when you first become eligible, you won't need to enroll until you retire or otherwise lose that coverage. Prescipition drug (Part D) coverage must be creditable or you may be subject to a late-enrollment penalty when you enroll in a plan with Part D benefits. |
Special Election Period
Some individuals may also qualify for a Special Election Period. Depending on certain circumstances, you may be able to enroll in a Medicare plan outside of the Initial Enrollment Period or Open Enrollment time frames You may qualify for a Special Election Period if you:
Special Needs Plans have other eligibility requirements. |