Medicare: When to Enroll

6 months before birthday

Start doing research on Medicare Advantage plans. Research which companies offer Medicare coverage in your area. Decide what type of plan will best meet your health care needs.

5 months before birthday

Attend a community meeting about Medicare. You'll learn about what Original Medicare covers, types of Medicare Advantage plans, and why Medicare Part D is important.

3 months before birthday

Sign up for Original Medicare. Enroll in Medicare Parts A and B.

Sign up for Medicare Advantage coverage. Make sure you apply for enrollment three months before your birthday. This ensures you don't have a gap in health care coverage.

3 months after birthday

This month is the last month you can enroll in Original Medicare.

Annual Election Period:
Oct. 15 – Dec. 7

You can add or drop Part D prescription drug coverage, change to a Medicare Advantage plan, or change to Original Medicare. Your coverage will be effective Jan. 1.

5-Star Special Enrollment Period:
Dec. 8, 2023 – Nov. 30, 2024

You can make ONE change to enroll in a plan that has a 5-star overall performance rating. You can switch from a Medicare Advantage plan, Original Medicare, or a Part D prescription drug plan as long as the new plan has a 5-star rating.

Your coverage will be effective the first of the next month.

Open Enrollment Period:
Jan. 1 – March 31

If you are on a Medicare Advantage plan, you can make ONE change to your coverage. You can add or drop Part D prescription drug coverage, or change to a different Medicare Advantage plan or to Original Medicare. Your coverage will be effective the first of the next month.

Lock-in Period:
April 1 – Oct. 14
Dec. 8 – Dec. 31

You cannot make a plan change after March 31 unless you qualify for a Special Election Period (SEP) or have Medical Assistance coverage.