Important Medicare Enrollment Deadlines You Can't Miss

Don't miss a critical date. Learn about your Initial Enrollment Period, the Annual Enrollment Period, and Special Enrollment Periods.

Medicare Timing is Everything

Missing a Medicare deadline can result in delayed coverage, gaps in care, and lifelong financial penalties. Here is a breakdown of the most important Medicare enrollment periods you need to know.

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

This is your first chance to enroll in Medicare. It lasts for 7 months: the 3 months before your 65th birthday month, your birthday month, and the 3 months after.

Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)

Runs from October 15 to December 7 every year. During this time, anyone with Medicare can:

• Change from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan (or vice versa)
• Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another
• Switch from one Part D prescription drug plan to another
• Enroll in or drop a Part D plan

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period

Runs from January 1 to March 31 every year. If you are already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you have a one-time opportunity to switch to a different Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare (and pick up a Part D plan).

Special Enrollment Periods (SEP)

Life happens. If you experience certain qualifying events, you may be granted a Special Enrollment Period to change your coverage outside of the standard windows. Common triggers include:

• Moving out of your plan's service area
• Losing employer coverage (retiring)
• Qualifying for Extra Help or Medicaid
• Moving into or out of a skilled nursing facility

Need Personalized Guidance?

Reading about Medicare is a great first step, but everyone's situation is unique. Speak with a licensed Arkansas Medicare advisor to get personalized answers.