Initial Coverage Election Period (ICEP)

The Initial Coverage Election Period (ICEP) is the window during which you can first enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan. It runs concurrently with your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) — the 7-month window around your 65th birthday — but specifically applies to Medicare Advantage plan selection.

If you enroll in Part B during the last 3 months of your IEP, your ICEP extends for 2 more months after Part B enrollment. This gives you a full opportunity to choose a Medicare Advantage plan without having to wait for AEP.

If you miss your ICEP, you'll need to wait for the next Annual Enrollment Period (October 15–December 7) to join a Medicare Advantage plan, unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.