The windows at a glance
| Window | Dates | What you can do |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Enrollment Period | 7 months around your 65th birthday month | Sign up for Part A, Part B, Part D or an Advantage plan |
| Medigap Open Enrollment | 6 months, starting when you are 65 and in Part B | Buy any Medigap plan with no health questions |
| Annual Enrollment Period | October 15 to December 7 | Join, switch or drop Advantage and Part D plans for January 1 |
| Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment | January 1 to March 31 | Advantage members can switch plans once or return to Original Medicare |
| General Enrollment Period | January 1 to March 31 | Sign up for Part A or Part B if you missed your first window |
| Special Enrollment Periods | Triggered by life events | Change coverage after a move, job loss or other qualifying event |
Annual Enrollment: October 15 to December 7
This is the window most people know. Anyone with Medicare can switch Advantage plans, switch drug plans, move from Original Medicare to Advantage or back, or join a drug plan. Changes start January 1. Before it opens, read your Annual Notice of Change or set up a free plan review.
Common Special Enrollment Periods
- You move out of your plan's service area, or to a new area with different plan choices.
- You lose employer or union coverage, which opens an eight-month window to sign up for Part B.
- You qualify for Extra Help or Medicaid.
- A five-star rated Advantage or drug plan serves your area. You can switch into it once between December 8 and November 30.
- Your plan leaves Medicare or stops serving your area.
Missed your window?
If you missed your Initial Enrollment Period and have no qualifying employer coverage, the General Enrollment Period runs January 1 to March 31. Coverage starts the first of the month after you sign up. You may owe a Part B late penalty, so do not wait longer than you have to.
Common questions
Can I change Medicare plans any time?
No. Outside your first window, you can change during Annual Enrollment, the January to March Advantage window, or a Special Enrollment Period.
When do Annual Enrollment changes take effect?
January 1 of the following year.
Can I switch Medigap plans during Annual Enrollment?
Annual Enrollment does not apply to Medigap. You can apply to switch Medigap plans any time, but most states let the insurer ask health questions.