What is the Medicare General Enrollment Period?
The Medicare General Enrollment Period (GEP) takes place from January 1 through March 31. It is your best opportunity to enroll in Medicare if you didn’t when you were first eligible.
How Medicare Eligibility Works
To know why the General Enrollment Period is so important, you need to know about Medicare eligibility.
You typically become eligible for Medicare at age 65. You’re also eligible if you have a disability or End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), but the GEP won’t affect you if that’s how you qualify.
Three months before your 65th birthday, your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) starts, and ends three months after. During this time, you can enroll in any eligible Medicare plan, specifically Medicare Part A and Part B (Original Medicare).
You don’t have to use your IEP, however, if you’re still working. But, if you’re not and you miss your IEP, you may face some late penalties.
What You Can Do During General Enrollment
But, if you miss your IEP, do you have another opportunity to enroll in Medicare? Yes, during the General Enrollment Period (GEP).
The main purpose of the GEP is for those who did not enroll in Medicare during their IEP, but cannot enroll with a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). So, the GEP is your best time to get Medicare. You may have some late fees, but it is well worth it to get the coverage of Medicare.
We’re Here for You—Call Midwest Medigap
Midwest Medigap can help you navigate your Medicare enrollment. To get started, get a free quote, or call 800-805-6834.
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