Typically, you may enroll in a Medicare Advantage or standalone Part D plan only during the annual enrollment period, October 15 – December 7 of each year.
A Medicare Special Enrollment Period (SEP) allows you to sign up for or change Medicare plans outside of the annual enrollment time due to certain qualifying life events.
Below are some common examples of qualifying events:
- January 1 – March 31: Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period. Click here for more details.
- All year: Belong to a pharmacy assistance program provided by the state. In New York State, this is EPIC. [apply online]
- All year: Recently moved and need a plan coverage available in new area.
- All year: Currently have or will be enrolling in other drug coverage as good as Medicare Part D (like Tricare or VA coverage.) Click here for more details.
- January 1 – September 30: Recently started or lost Medicaid or Extra Help assistance.