Enrollment
Medicare Enrollment Periods
Medicare has several enrollment periods. Missing the window that applies to you can cause delayed coverage or penalties, so confirm dates with Medicare or Social Security before acting.
Initial Enrollment Period
For many people who qualify at 65, this seven-month period begins three months before the month they turn 65 and ends three months after it.
Other enrollment windows
General, Annual, Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment, and Special Enrollment Periods serve different purposes. A life event does not automatically guarantee a Special Enrollment Period.