Understanding Medicare Advantage enrollment periods is essential to making sure your coverage meets your healthcare needs. Medicare Advantage plans (also known as Medicare Part C) have specific times during the year when you can enroll, switch plans, or return to Original Medicare. Missing these windows may limit your options until the next enrollment opportunity.
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
Your Initial Enrollment Period is your first opportunity to enroll in Medicare and choose a Medicare Advantage plan. It is the seven-month period comprising your birth month and the three months directly before or after you turn 65.
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
The Annual Enrollment Period, also called the Medicare Open Enrollment Period, takes place every year from October 15 through December 7. Click here to learn more about AEP.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP)
The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period runs from January 1 through March 31 each year. Click here to learn more about OEP.
Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs)
Special Enrollment Periods allow you to make changes outside of the standard enrollment windows when certain life events occur. These periods vary depending on your situation. Click here to learn more about SEPs.
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
Your Initial Enrollment Period is your first opportunity to enroll in Medicare and choose a Medicare Advantage plan. It is the seven-month period comprising your birth month and the three months directly before or after you turn 65.
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
The Annual Enrollment Period, also called the Medicare Open Enrollment Period, takes place every year from October 15 through December 7. Click here to learn more about AEP.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP)
The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period runs from January 1 through March 31 each year. Click here to learn more about OEP.
Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs)
Special Enrollment Periods allow you to make changes outside of the standard enrollment windows when certain life events occur. These periods vary depending on your situation. Click here to learn more about SEPs.
Why Enrollment Periods Matter
Medicare Advantage plans can differ widely in cost, provider networks, and covered benefits. Understanding when you can make changes helps ensure you avoid gaps in coverage and choose a plan that fits your healthcare and financial needs.
Reviewing your coverage annually and knowing your enrollment options
can help you:
- Adjust to changes in health or medications
- Lower out-of-pocket costs
- Access preferred doctors or hospitals
- Take advantage of new plan benefits
Why Enrollment Periods Matter
Medicare Advantage plans can differ widely in cost, provider networks, and covered benefits. Understanding when you can make changes helps ensure you avoid gaps in coverage and choose a plan that fits your healthcare and financial needs.
Reviewing your coverage annually and knowing your enrollment options
can help you:
- Adjust to changes in health or medications
- Lower out-of-pocket costs
- Access preferred doctors or hospitals
- Take advantage of new plan benefits