Medicare resource hub

Medicare enrollment periods hub

Know when you can join, switch, or drop a Medicare plan. Missing a window can mean paying a late enrollment penalty or waiting months for coverage to start.

6Enrollment periods

22Carriers in NC & SC

241Plan pages

Key enrollment windows

These are the main periods when most people make their Medicare choices. Dates are set by CMS and apply nationally.

Catch-up and special enrollment periods

If you missed a standard window, you may still have options. Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) are triggered by qualifying life events.

General Enrollment Period (GEP) Jan 1 – Mar 31

For people who missed their Initial Enrollment Period
Sign up for Part A and/or Part B
Coverage begins July 1 of that year
A late enrollment penalty may apply to Part B premiums

Special Enrollment Period (SEP) Triggered by life events

Losing employer or union health coverage
Moving out of your plan's service area
Your plan losing its Medicare contract
Qualifying for Extra Help (Low Income Subsidy)
Moving into or out of a skilled nursing facility or long-term care
Other qualifying events — contact a SHIP counselor to confirm eligibility

5-Star Special Enrollment Period Dec 8 – Nov 30

Switch once per year to a 5-star rated Medicare Advantage or Part D plan
5-star plans are rated by CMS based on quality and member satisfaction
Not all areas have 5-star plans available

Medicare Enrollment Periods

Medicare enrollment periods hub

Related hubs

Key enrollment windows

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) 7-month window

Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) Oct 15 – Dec 7

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA-OEP) Jan 1 – Mar 31

Catch-up and special enrollment periods

General Enrollment Period (GEP) Jan 1 – Mar 31

Special Enrollment Period (SEP) Triggered by life events

5-Star Special Enrollment Period Dec 8 – Nov 30