Knowing your options for health insurance is critical, especially once you approach the age of 65. You have a few options when it comes to preparing for your Medicare enrollment period. Be sure to choose the option that best suits your timeline, and discuss your options with your agent at We Make Medicare Easy if you’re unsure of where to start.
What Are the Medicare Enrollment Options?
There are two main enrollment plan options available: 
What Are the First Steps to Enrollment?
When enrolling for Medicare, there are a few steps you’re going to want to consider following:
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Sign up for Original Medicare. Original Medicare or Part A and B is your basic hospital insurance. You can sign up online or through your local Social Security office.
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Decide on Medicare Advantage. Medicare Advantage or Part C is additional coverage. You must enroll in Original Medicare before you can enroll in Medicare Advantage.
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Choose coverage for prescription drugs. Prescription coverage is also known as Part D. If you depend on regular prescriptions, Part D is beneficial because other parts of your Medicare won’t cover prescriptions.
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Consider your Medicare Supplement options. Medicare won’t cover all of your health care charges. Medicare Supplement plans can help fill the gaps in your coverage.
What Happens If I Enroll Late?
It’s most common to apply for Medicare during the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) surrounding your birthday. The IEP is three months prior to your 65th birthday, the month of your birthday and the three months following your birthday. If you miss your IEP, you can still enroll during the General Enrollment Period (GEP). The GEP runs from January 1 to March 31 each year, with coverage beginning July 1.
Missing the enrollment period could result in paying a higher premium for your coverage, so it’s important to save your dates. Whether or not late fees apply to you will depend on your unique situation.
Learn More About Medicare Open Enrollment
At We Make Medicare Easy, we want to help you get the health care coverage you need, penalty-free. Contact your agent today to learn more about your Medicare enrollment options.