General Enrollment Period (GEP)

The General Enrollment Period (GEP) runs every year from January 1 through March 31. It exists for people who missed their Initial Enrollment Period and don't qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

During the GEP you can enroll in Medicare Part A (if not yet enrolled) and Part B. However, unless you qualify for a SEP based on prior creditable employer coverage, you will likely face a permanent late enrollment penalty: 10% added to your Part B premium for every 12-month period you were eligible but didn't enroll.

Coverage enrolled during the GEP begins July 1 of that year — meaning a potential gap in coverage between enrollment and start date. If you're in this situation, talk to a Medicare advisor right away about your options.