You can only enroll in Medicare during specific times. These periods are called enrollment periods. There are several enrollment periods you can use, but which one is best depends on your specific circumstances.
If you are new to Medicare, the Initial Enrollment Period is probably the best time for you to enroll. Though, for people who wish to make changes to their current Medicare coverage, one of the other enrollment periods may be better.
Here are some of the best times to enroll in Medicare in 2022.
Initial Enrollment Period
The Initial Enrollment Period occurs once during every person’s lifetime. It begins 3 months before you turn 65 and ends 3 months later. The period includes the month of your 65th birthday, meaning you have a total of 7 months to enroll in Medicare. During this enrollment period, you can join Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage. You can also purchase a Medicare Supplement Insurance plan or Part D plan. This is the best and fastest period to enroll in Medicare, so we suggest that everyone use their Initial Enrollment Period when possible.
Annual Enrollment Period
The Annual Enrollment Period occurs at the end of every year during the fall. It’s too late to take advantage of this enrollment period for 2022, but between October 15 and December 7 of this year, you will be able to make changes that will impact your 2023 coverage.
During Annual Enrollment, you can change Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Part D plans. With these plans, you can change coverage, switch between plan types, and add prescription drug benefits if you like. Changes that are made will take effect on Jan 1, 2023.
We suggest that you think about how your coverage suits you this year, then make changes as necessary during the Annual Enrollment Period.
Get Started With Medicare
If your Initial Enrollment Period begins soon, you’ll want to make sure you’ve planned accordingly. Eldridge Agency can help you get ready for enrollment by helping you choose the best assortment of benefits. To get started with a free consultation or quote, please give us a call at 775-328-1197.
