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When Can I Enroll in Medicare?
Medicare enrollment happens during specific times of the year.
We’re here to help you understand when you’re eligible and what changes you can make.
Your Initial Enrollment Period is your first opportunity to sign up for Medicare.
This 7-month window includes:
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3 months before you turn 65
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The month of your 65th birthday
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3 months after your birthday month
You can:
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Enroll in Part A and Part B
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Choose Medicare Advantage or Original Medicare
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Add a Prescription Drug Plan (Part D)
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Apply for a Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
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Enrolling on time helps avoid penalties and delays.
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
October 15 – December 7
During AEP, most people can review their Medicare coverage and make changes for the upcoming year. Any changes made during this time take effect on January 1.
You can:
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Switch Medicare Advantage plans
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Move from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage
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Add, drop, or change a Prescription Drug Plan
January 1 – March 31
If you are currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, OEP allows you to make one change during this time.
You can:
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Switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan
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Return to Original Medicare
Only one change is allowed during this period.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP)
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
Under 65 & Special Situations
You may be eligible for Medicare based on age or specific circumstances.
You may be eligible for Medicare if you:
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Turning 65 soon or recently turned 65
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Losing employer or retiree health coverage
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Receiving disability benefits
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Have a diagnosis of ALS
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Have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)
If you qualify, you can enroll in Original Medicare and may also be eligible for Medicare Advantage or supplemental plans, depending on your situation.
For those under 65 who do not qualify for Medicare, Sycamore offers dental, vision, and hearing plans for all ages. We also provide private health insurance options through BCBS and Aetna.