Medicare Open Enrollment: What You Need to Know Before You Turn 65

If you’re approaching age 65, it’s natural to have questions about Medicare and when you should sign up. Medicare is an important program that provides health coverage for millions of Americans, but understanding how and when to enroll can feel overwhelming. With Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period right around the corner, here’s a breakdown of what you need to know.

When Can You Sign Up for Medicare?

• Initial Enrollment Period (IEP):
  You can first sign up for Medicare when you turn 65. Your enrollment window begins 3 months before your 65th birthday, includes the month you turn 65, and extends 3 months after.

• Annual Enrollment Period (AEP):
  Each year, from October 15 through December 7, you can join, switch, or drop a Medicare Advantage or Part D prescription drug plan. Any changes take effect on January 1.

• Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs):
  If you continue working after 65 and have employer coverage, you may qualify for a special enrollment period without penalties.

Understanding the Parts of Medicare

• Part A (Hospital Insurance): Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing, hospice, and some home health care.

• Part B (Medical Insurance): Covers doctor visits, outpatient services, preventive care, and medical supplies.

• Part C (Medicare Advantage): Plans offered by private insurers that combine Parts A and B, often with extras like dental, vision, or hearing coverage.

• Part D (Prescription Drug Plans): Helps pay for prescription medications. Important: if you don’t sign up when first eligible and don’t have other creditable drug coverage, you may face a late enrollment penalty.

What About Supplemental Coverage (Medigap)?

Original Medicare doesn’t cover everything. That’s where Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance) comes in. These policies help cover costs like deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. Each plan (labeled A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M, and N) offers a different level of coverage.

Why Planning Ahead Matters

Starting early gives you more time to compare plans, avoid late enrollment penalties, and choose coverage that fits your health needs and budget. Whether you’re looking at Original Medicare with a supplement, or a Medicare Advantage plan, guidance can make the process easier.

Next Steps

• Mark your calendar for October 15–December 7 for Annual Enrollment.

• Review your healthcare needs and budget before comparing plans.

• Reach out for help — working with an independent agent means you’ll have access to multiple carriers and unbiased advice.

📅 Need personalized guidance? Schedule a consultation with Estrella Insurance Solutions today to explore your Medicare options.