Navigating the 2026 Medicare Enrollment Calendar

Navigating the 2026 Medicare Enrollment Calendar

1. Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): Your First Chance

For most people, this is a 7-month window around your 65th birthday.

• When it happens: It starts 3 months before your 65th birthday month, includes your birthday month, and lasts for 3 months after.
• Why it matters: This is your primary opportunity to sign up for Medicare Parts A and B, a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C), or a Prescription Drug plan (Part D).
• The Risk: Missing this window may result in lifetime late enrollment penalties.

2. General Enrollment Period (GEP): A Second Opportunity

If you missed your IEP and don't qualify for a special period, you can still sign up for Original Medicare during the GEP.

• Dates: January 1 – March 31 each year.
• Coverage Start: Your coverage will begin the first day of the month after you sign up.
• Note: You may still face late enrollment penalties for delaying Part B.

3. Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): Your Yearly Check-Up

Also known as Open Enrollment, this is when you can re-evaluate and change your current coverage.

• Dates: October 15 – December 7.
• Changes Allowed: Switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage, change Advantage plans, or add/drop a Part D drug plan.
• Effective Date: Any changes made during this time take effect on January 1, 2026.

4. Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (MA OEP)

If you already have a Medicare Advantage plan, this window gives you a second chance to make a single change.

• Dates: January 1 – March 31.
• Changes Allowed: You can switch to a different Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare.

5. Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs): For Life's Big Changes

You may qualify to change your coverage outside of standard windows if you experience a major life event.

• Common Reasons: Moving to a new area, losing employer coverage, or qualifying for "Extra Help".
• New for 2026: A temporary SEP is available if you chose a plan based on incorrect network information in the online Plan Finder tool.