Editorial note: Figures on this page reflect the 2026 Medicare program year and are cross-referenced against the official Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) publications. Always confirm current numbers before making enrollment decisions.
The five milestones
- Step 1Turning 65
Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is a 7-month window: the 3 months before your birthday month, your birthday month, and the 3 months after.
- Step 2Initial Enrollment Period
Sign up for Parts A and B during this window. Sign up before your birthday month for coverage to begin on the 1st of your birthday month.
- Step 3Compare Plans
Compare coverage details, provider access, prescription drug coverage, and costs so you can make an informed enrollment decision.
- Step 4Choose Coverage
Enroll in the coverage that fits your doctors, prescriptions, and budget. You can also schedule an educational consultation if you'd like help understanding your Medicare options.
- Step 5Annual Review
Re-shop every year during the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7). Plans and prescriptions change — your coverage should keep up.
A few enrollment terms to know
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): Your 7-month sign-up window around your 65th birthday. General Enrollment Period (GEP): January 1 – March 31 each year, for people who missed their IEP. Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): October 15 – December 7, when you can change Advantage or Part D plans. Special Enrollment Period (SEP): Triggered by qualifying life events like losing employer coverage or moving. Some individuals qualify for a SEP based on specific life events; visit Medicare.gov for complete eligibility information.
Medicare has neither reviewed nor endorsed this information. For a complete list of plans in your area, call 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY: 1-877-486-2048).