If you're preparing to apply for Medicare or renew your existing plan in 2024, it’s important to be aware of key deadlines and renewal periods. Missing these important dates can result in delays, coverage gaps, or penalties. Let’s break down the essential Medicare enrollment periods, so you can make sure you're covered without stress.


Key Deadlines and Renewal Periods

1. Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

The Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is a seven-month window for those turning 65. This period begins three months before your 65th birthday, includes your birthday month, and extends for three months afterward. This is your first opportunity to sign up for Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance), and it’s crucial not to miss this period.

  • When It Happens: Seven months around your 65th birthday.
  • What You Need to Do: During the IEP, you can sign up for Medicare Part A, Part B, and sometimes even Part D (prescription drug coverage) or a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C).
  • Why It Matters: If you miss your IEP, you may face late enrollment penalties, especially for Part B and Part D.

2. General Enrollment Period (GEP)

If you missed your Initial Enrollment Period, the General Enrollment Period (GEP) offers another chance to sign up. The GEP runs from January 1 to March 31 each year.

  • When It Happens: January 1 - March 31.
  • What You Need to Do: During this period, you can sign up for Part A and/or Part B if you didn’t do so earlier. However, keep in mind that coverage won’t begin until July 1, and you might face late enrollment penalties.
  • Why It Matters: This is your opportunity to get covered if you missed other enrollment periods, though you may have to pay a higher premium due to late penalties.

3. Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)

The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is the most important period for those already enrolled in Medicare who want to make changes to their plans. AEP runs each year from October 15 to December 7.

  • When It Happens: October 15 - December 7.
  • What You Need to Do: During AEP, you can make several changes to your Medicare plan, including:
  • Switching from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan (or vice versa).
  • Changing your Medicare Advantage Plan.
  • Joining or changing a Part D (prescription drug) plan.
  • Why It Matters: Any changes you make during AEP will take effect on January 1, 2025. This is an important opportunity to adjust your coverage if your healthcare needs or financial situation have changed.

4. Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP)

For those already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan, the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP) allows you to make changes to your plan if needed. The OEP runs each year from January 1 to March 31.

  • When It Happens: January 1 - March 31.
  • What You Need to Do: During OEP, if you're already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can:
  • Switch to another Medicare Advantage Plan.
  • Drop your Medicare Advantage Plan and return to Original Medicare (Part A and Part B).
  • Add or drop Part D (prescription drug) coverage if you switch back to Original Medicare.
  • Why It Matters: If you’re not satisfied with your current Medicare Advantage Plan, this is your chance to switch or return to Original Medicare without waiting for the next AEP.

5. Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs)

Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) allow you to sign up or make changes to your Medicare coverage outside of the usual periods due to specific life events, such as losing employer-sponsored health insurance or moving to a new location.

  • When It Happens: Throughout the year, based on qualifying life events.
  • What You Need to Do: If you qualify for an SEP, you can enroll in Medicare or make changes to your current plan without waiting for the next GEP or AEP.
  • Why It Matters: SEPs offer flexibility for those experiencing significant life changes, helping you avoid coverage gaps or penalties.

6. Plan Renewal and Changes

Every year, Medicare plans can change their costs, coverage, and networks. If you're already enrolled in a Medicare plan, you’ll receive a Notice of Changes document by the end of September. This document outlines any changes to your plan, including premiums, deductibles, and benefits for the following year.

  • What You Need to Do: Review the Notice of Changes carefully. If your plan no longer meets your needs, use the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) to make adjustments.
  • Why It Matters: Understanding the changes to your plan ensures you maintain the coverage you need at a price you can afford.

Learn more about enrollment periods on Medicare.gov.


Navigating Medicare application deadlines and renewal periods is key to ensuring you get the coverage you need without unnecessary penalties or coverage gaps. Whether you're turning 65 and enrolling for the first time, or you're an existing beneficiary looking to make changes, knowing when and how to act is crucial for your healthcare security.

Stay informed and make the most of your Medicare coverage. GetSetUp offers classes to help you better understand Medicare and make confident decisions. Join us to explore your options and stay on top of the 2024 deadlines and renewal periods!

Reviewed By: Keith Gilbert