Before turning 65
Use the months before your birthday to review employer coverage, prescriptions, doctors, and whether you need to enroll in Parts A and B.
Medicare Resources
Medicare enrollment periods explained
Understand when you can first enroll, when you may change coverage, and why acting during the correct enrollment window matters.
Your first Medicare enrollment window
For many people, the Initial Enrollment Period is the seven-month period surrounding the month they turn 65. It generally begins three months before the birthday month, includes the birthday month, and continues for three months afterward. Starting dates can depend on when an application is submitted.
Your birthday month
Enrollment remains available, but waiting may affect when coverage begins. Confirm effective dates before ending other insurance.
After your birthday
You may still have time in your Initial Enrollment Period, although later applications can mean a later coverage start.
Other important enrollment periods
Annual Enrollment Period
From October 15 through December 7, eligible beneficiaries can review and change Medicare Advantage or Part D coverage for the following year.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment
From January 1 through March 31, people already enrolled in Medicare Advantage may make one permitted change or return to Original Medicare.
General Enrollment Period
People who did not enroll in Part A or Part B when first eligible may be able to enroll from January 1 through March 31. Late-enrollment penalties may apply.
Special Enrollment Periods
Certain life events—such as losing qualifying employer coverage, moving, or changes in eligibility—may create an additional opportunity to enroll or change plans.
Enrollment rights and effective dates depend on individual circumstances. Medicare, Social Security, or the applicable plan should confirm your exact eligibility and deadline.
Prepare before you enroll
Confirm whether you are enrolled automatically or need to apply.
Review how Medicare coordinates with active employer or retiree coverage.
Make a current list of prescriptions, doctors, pharmacies, and hospitals.
Check plan availability and provider networks in your county.
Verify the effective date before cancelling existing coverage.
Get help reviewing your options
Gala Health can help you compare plan information based on your prescriptions, doctors, preferred pharmacies, budget, and coverage priorities.
Request a plan review