MEDICARE ADVANTAGE (MEDICARE PART C) enrollment process The enrollment process for Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C) and Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plans differs, and it’s important to understand the specific steps and timing for each type of plan. 1. INITIAL ENROLLMENT PERIOD (IEP): When you first become eligible for Medicare, you have an Initial Enrollment Period that begins three months before your 65th birthday and continues for three months after. During this time, you can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan. 2. ANNUAL ENROLLMENT PERIOD (AEP): The Annual Enrollment Period, also known as the Fall Open Enrollment Period, takes place every year from October 15 to December 7. During this period, you can do the following: o Enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan for the first time. o Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another. o Return to Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) if you’re currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan and wish to do so. o Enroll in or change your Medicare Part D prescription drug plan (if your Medicare Advantage plan doesn’t include drug coverage). 3. SPECIAL ENROLLMENT PERIOD (SEP): There are specific circumstances that may qualify you for a Special Enrollment Period. Examples include moving to a new service area, losing other coverage, or becoming eligible for Medicaid. During an SEP, you can enroll in or make changes to your Medicare Advantage plan.
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