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Important Dates

Initial enrollment period

Are you enrolling in Medicare for the first time? If so, you have seven months to enroll in Medicare during the year that you turn 65. You can enroll in the three months before your birthday month, during your birthday month, or for three months after your birthday month.

If you don’t enroll during this period, you may have to pay a penalty when you enroll. To avoid a penalty from the federal government, contact Social Security before turning 65 or during your initial enrollment period.

Sample initial enrollment period for 65th birthday in June:

Medicare sample enrollment calendar
Avoid lifetime penalties

To avoid monetary penalties from the federal government, enroll in Medicare during your initial enrollment period. If you don’t enroll during this period, you may have to pay a penalty when you enroll. Contact Social Security to find out how you can avoid a late enrollment penalty.

Annual enrollment period

Oct. 15 - Dec. 7

Are you eligible for Medicare Part A and Part B? You can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan such as HMSA Medicare Advantage to receive more benefits that Medicare doesn’t pay for. Enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan or make changes to your current plan every year during the annual enrollment period. Your plan would start Jan. 1.

Medicare annual enrollment calendar

Special enrollment period

Missed the initial or annual enrollment period? Don't worry. You can enroll in Medicare during a special enrollment period if you:

  • Lost your health plan through your job or spouse
  • Moved
  • Got married