Medicare General Enrollment Period (GEP)

What is the General Enrollment Period for Medicare?

If you’re new to Medicare, you’ve probably heard about multiple enrollment periods. These timeframes are critical for signing up for coverage or changing your plan.

The Medicare General Enrollment Period (GEP) is one of the most important. Sometimes called the general enrollment period for Medicare, it gives you another chance to sign up for Part A and Part B coverage if you missed your initial opportunity.

During the GEP, you can enroll in Original Medicare, even if you previously delayed Part B or did not enroll when first eligible.

What is the Medicare General Enrollment Period?

The General Enrollment Period for Medicare allows eligible individuals to sign up for Original Medicare Part A and Original Medicare Part B if:

• You missed your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
• You do not qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

This enrollment window is not designed to change plans. If you already have Medicare and want to switch or adjust your coverage, you’ll need the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) from October 15 to December 7.

Suppose you have a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) and want to switch or return to Original Medicare. In that case, you can do so during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 to March 31) or the Annual Enrollment Period.

Agent tip:

“If you are already receiving Social Security, you may be automatically enrolled in Part A coverage at age 65, but you must actively sign up for Part B if you delayed it.“

Who’s Eligible to Enroll During the General Enrollment Period?

According to Medicare.gov, you may sign up for Medicare during the General Enrollment Period if you meet one of these criteria:

• Age 65 or older
• Under 65 with qualifying disabilities (per the Social Security Administration)
• Diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) or End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)

If you meet any of the above and missed your Initial Enrollment Period, you can use the GEP to enroll in Part A and/or Part B coverage.

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When is the Medicare General Enrollment Period?

The General Enrollment Period happens every year from January 1 to March 31.

Key points:

• You can sign up for Medicare Part A and/or Part B during this time
• Coverage starts the month after you enroll, usually beginning on the first day of the month
• If you miss your Initial Enrollment Period and sign up during the General Enrollment Period, you may face late enrollment penalties.

Medicare Late Enrollment Penalties

According to Medicare.gov, missing your Initial Enrollment Period without qualifying for a Special Enrollment Period may result in late enrollment penalties added to your monthly premiums.

Part A Late Enrollment Penalty

• Applies only if you don’t qualify for premium-free Part A.
• Your monthly premium increases by 10%.
• You pay the higher premium for twice the number of years you delayed.
• Example: In 2025, the standard Part A premium is up to $518 monthly. If you delayed enrollment for 2 years, Medicare would add a 10% penalty (about $51.80) to your monthly premium. That means you would pay roughly $569.80 per month instead of $518. Since the rule requires you to pay the higher premium for twice the number of years you delayed, you would keep paying this higher amount for 4 years.

Part B Late Enrollment Penalty

• Your monthly premium increases 10% for each whole 12-month period you delay, meaning the longer you wait, the more you’ll pay in the months after the month you were first eligible.
• The penalty is for life — you pay it as long as you have Part B coverage.
• You may also pay a higher premium based on income.
• Example: If you delayed Part B for two whole years and didn’t qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, your 2025 monthly premium would be approximately $222 ($185.00 standard premium + $37 penalty).
  

To confirm your best enrollment timing, call (623) 223-8884 and speak with a licensed Connie Health insurance agent. Avoid penalties. Securing coverage at the right time can save you money over the long term.

How Do I Enroll During the General Enrollment Period?

You can sign up for Medicare Part A and B by:

1. Contacting the Social Security Administration online, by phone, or at your local SSA office
2. Working with a Connie Health licensed insurance agent to confirm timing and explore supplemental coverage options

Because Original Medicare does not have a maximum out-of-pocket limit, most people consider:

• Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans to cover gaps and reduce out-of-pocket costs
• Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans that bundle additional benefits such as dental, vision, hearing, and often prescription drug coverage.

General Enrollment Period for Medicare Part B

If you already have Part A coverage but delayed Part B, you can use the GEP to enroll in Medicare Part B. According to Medicare.gov, your coverage starts the month after you sign up. 

Bottom line

The Medicare General Enrollment Period (GEP) lets you sign up for Part A and Part B if you missed your initial window. Medicare coverage starts the month after you sign up, and late penalties may apply. Act early or speak with an agent to avoid extra costs.

If you’re unsure about your enrollment options, call a licensed Medicare insurance agent in your area at (623) 223-8884 for personalized help. 

Need Help Deciding The Right Medicare Coverage For You?

• Free, unbiased service
• Compare all major plans and carriers
• Local, licensed insurance agents with 25+ years of experience

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I add Medicare Part D during the General Enrollment Period?

Yes, after enrolling in Part A and/or Part B, you can add a Part D prescription drug plan.

Does enrolling during the General Enrollment Period (GEP) affect Medigap eligibility?

Yes, enrolling late may limit your Medigap guaranteed issue rights, making approval subject to underwriting in many states.

Can I switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare during the General Enrollment Period (GEP)?

No, switching plans is not the purpose of the GEP. Instead, use the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 to March 31) or Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 to December 7).

Are there income-based penalties for enrolling late?

Late penalties are based on how long you delayed enrollment, not your income. However, higher earners may pay IRMAA surcharges on Part B and D premiums.

How do I avoid lifetime late enrollment penalties?

To avoid lifetime late enrollment penalties, you can enroll during your Initial Enrollment Period or qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. Speak with a licensed insurance agent early to understand your deadlines.