January 1, 2026
For most people, this is a 7-month window around your 65th birthday.
When it happens:
It starts 3 months before your 65th birthday month, includes your birthday month, and lasts for 3 months after.
Why it matters:
This is your primary opportunity to sign up for Medicare Parts A and B, a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C), or a Prescription Drug plan (Part D).
The Risk:
Missing this window may result in
lifetime late enrollment penalties
.
If you missed your IEP and don't qualify for a special period, you can still sign up for Original Medicare during the GEP.
Dates:
January 1 – March 31 each year.
Coverage Start:
Your coverage will begin the first day of the month after you sign up.
Note:
You may still face late enrollment penalties for delaying Part B.
Also known as Open Enrollment, this is when you can re-evaluate and change your current coverage.
Dates:
October 15 – December 7.
Changes Allowed:
Switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage, change Advantage plans, or add/drop a Part D drug plan.
Effective Date:
Any changes made during this time take effect on
January 1, 2026
.
If you already have a Medicare Advantage plan, this window gives you a second chance to make a single change.
Dates:
January 1 – March 31.
Changes Allowed:
You can switch to a different Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare.
You may qualify to change your coverage outside of standard windows if you experience a major life event.
Common Reasons:
Moving to a new area, losing employer coverage, or qualifying for "Extra Help".
New for 2026:
A temporary SEP is available if you chose a plan based on incorrect network information in the online Plan Finder tool.
