Medicare coverage starts based on when you sign up and which sign-up period you're in. This guide provides detailed information on the various enrollment periods, how to avoid penalties, and the impact on your coverage start date.

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

Your first chance to sign up for Medicare is during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP). This period lasts for 7 months, starting 3 months before you turn 65 and ending 3 months after the month you turn 65. If your birthday is on the first of the month, your coverage starts the month before you turn 65.

Coverage Start Dates During IEP

Avoiding Late Enrollment Penalties

If you miss your 7-month IEP, you may face a monthly late enrollment penalty for as long as you have Part B coverage. This penalty increases the longer you wait.

How to Avoid Penalties

• Sign up during your IEP.

• If you need to sign up later, ensure you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).

General Enrollment Period (GEP)

If you miss your IEP, you can sign up during the General Enrollment Period, which runs from January 1 to March 31 each year. Your coverage will start the month after you sign up, but you might have to pay a late enrollment penalty.

Coverage Start Date During GEP

Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

In certain situations, you can sign up for Medicare Part B (and Premium-Part A) without paying a late enrollment penalty outside of your IEP or GEP. Here are some scenarios and their corresponding enrollment periods:

SEP Scenarios and Coverage Start Dates

CMS-10797 Form

Specific Situations Not Qualifying for SEP

• Your COBRA coverage or retiree coverage ends.

• You missed your 8-month window to sign up when you stopped working or lost job-based coverage.

• You have or lose your Marketplace coverage.

• You have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD).

For more detailed information about Medicare enrollment periods and penalties, refer to the official Medicare website or contact your local Social Security office.

This guide is designed to help you understand when to sign up for Medicare to avoid penalties and ensure continuous coverage. Make sure to sign up during the appropriate enrollment periods and consult with Medicare or Social Security representatives if you have specific questions or unique situations.