What Is the Medicare Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)?
The Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is the 7-month window around your 65th birthday when you can first enroll in Medicare Part A and Part B.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does my birthday being on the 1st change anything?
- Yes. If you were born on the 1st of the month, Medicare treats your eligibility as starting one month earlier, which shifts your entire IEP one month earlier.
- What if I only want Part A?
- You can enroll in Part A only during your IEP. Part A is usually premium-free if you or your spouse have enough work credits.
- What if I'm already getting Social Security?
- You will be automatically enrolled in both Part A and Part B. Your Medicare card will arrive about 3 months before you turn 65.