When you become close to being eligible for Medicare, there are many decisions to consider.
On your 65th birthday, you become eligible for Medicare although you can’t apply anytime during this year because there is a specific window of opportunity.
Missing this period could result in penalties that could follow you for the rest of your life.
Whether you are approaching the age of 65 yourself or a loved one, continue reading to learn about crucial enrollment periods for Medicare coverage.
Part A: Hospital Insurance
Enrollment Period: 7 Months
In most cases, your enrollment period is 3 months before your 65th birthday month, during your birthday month, and 3 months after your birthday month.
If You Miss This Period:
There are no penalties for not enrolling in Part A during the 7-month period. However, not enrolling during the 3 months prior to your birthday month will mean that your coverage will be delayed and not start during your birthday month. Part A coverage is not retroactive.
Part B: Medical Insurance
Enrollment Period: 7 Months
In most cases, your enrollment period is 3 months before your 65th birthday month, during your birthday month, and 3 months after your birthday month.
If You Miss This Period:
Missing this enrollment period may mean higher premiums. If you don’s sign up for Part B when you’re first eligible, you may have to pay a higher premium for late enrollment for as long as you have Medicare.
Part C: Medicare Advantage
Enrollment Period: 7-Months
In most cases, your enrollment period is 3 months before your 65th birthday month, during your birthday month, and 3 months after your birthday month.
If You Miss This Period:
Missing this enrollment period means waiting until the next annual enrollment period. The annual enrollment dates are October 15 through December 7. Medicare beneficiaries may return to traditional Medicare between January 1 and February 14 of each year. Exact dates may change from year-to-year.
Part D: Prescription Drug Costs
Enrollment Period: 7-Months
In most cases, your enrollment period is 3 months before your 65th birthday month, during your birthday month, and 3 months after your birthday month.
If You Miss This Period:
Missing this enrollment period may mean having to wait until the next annual enrollment period to add the prescription drug coverage. You may also have to pay higher premiums for as long as you have Medicare because you did not sign up when you first became eligible. The annual enrollment period is October 15 through December 7. Exact dates may change from year-to-year. Coverage from the annual enrollment periods is effective on January 1 of the following year.
It’s extremely important to apply for Medicare during enrollment periods although there are plenty of agencies that can assist you with any questions you may have. Below are just a few organizations who can help.
Medicare
(24 hours, 7 days)
1.800.MEDICARE 1.800.633.4227 TTY/TDD 1.877.486.2048
U.S. Social Security Administration
1.800.772.1213 TTY/TDD 1.800.325.0778
U.S. Administration on Aging
1.800.677.1116
8000 North Stadium
Houston, TX 77054
832.393.4301 1.800.213.8471
Nick Bryant is the author of Understanding Healthcare Is Half The Battle and a Senior Counselor with 13+ years of experience working in community health and mental health. He enjoys spending time with his family, watching WWE on Friday nights, and working toward a Google Data Analytics certification. If you have additional questions about community resources or government assistance programs, simply leave a comment below and he will follow up as soon as possible.
