As a Medicare beneficiary, it’s important to understand when and how you can make changes to your Medicare coverage. Two key enrollment periods are the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP) and the General Enrollment Period (GEP). These periods occur from January 1 to March 31 each year, but they serve different purposes and apply to different situations. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you understand when each period applies and what you can do during them.
What is the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MAOEP)?
The Open Enrollment Period (OEP) is for individuals who are already enrolled in Medicare Part A and/or Part B. This is a time when you can make changes to your current Medicare Advantage (Part C) or Prescription Drug (Part D) plans. Here’s what you can do during OEP:
- Switch Medicare Advantage Plans: If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can change to another plan that may better meet your needs.
- Return to Original Medicare: If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can return to Original Medicare (Parts A and B).
- Add or Change a Part D Plan: You can also change or enroll in a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan if needed.
When do MAOEP Changes Take Effect?
Changes you make during MAOEP will take effect on the first day of the following month. For example, if you make a change on February 15, your new coverage will begin on March 1.
Who is Eligible for MAOEP?
The OEP is for individuals who are already enrolled in Medicare. It allows you to adjust your coverage if your needs or circumstances change.
What is the General Enrollment Period (GEP)?
The General Enrollment Period (GEP) is for individuals who missed enrolling in Medicare during their Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) or the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). If you didn’t enroll in Medicare when you were first eligible, GEP gives you another opportunity to sign up. Here’s what you can do during GEP:
- Enroll in Medicare Part A and/or Part B: If you missed enrolling in Medicare earlier, you can use this time to enroll in both Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance).
When Does GEP Coverage Begin?
If you enroll in Medicare during the GEP, your coverage will start on July 1 of that year.
Who is Eligible for GEP?
The GEP is for individuals who did not sign up for Medicare during their Initial Enrollment Period and are not yet enrolled in Medicare. This includes:
- People who didn’t enroll when first eligible.
- Those who missed both their IEP and AEP.
*The General Enrollment Period is your first chance to apply for Medicare coverage if you missed your Initial Enrollment Period.
Key Differences Between MAOEP & GEP
| Enrollment | MAOEP | GEP |
| Purpose | Adjust existing Medicare coverage | Enroll in Medicare for the first time |
| Who it’s for | Those already enrolled in Medicare | Those not yet enrolled in Medicare |
| Changes Allowed | Change plans or return to Original Medicare | Enroll in Part A and/or Part B |
| Coverage Effective | First of the month after the change | July 1 |
Working with a Broker Means Having an Advocate by Your Side Through Your Medicare Journey
Medicare’s many enrollment periods can be confusing, each with its own rules, deadlines, and options. Navigating these complexities on your own can feel overwhelming—but that’s where a licensed broker can make all the difference.
A broker who specializes in senior health markets provides more than just plan recommendations. They tailor their services to your unique needs, helping you:
- Understand Your Options: From the Initial Enrollment Period to Special Enrollment Periods and beyond, a broker ensures you know what choices available and what steps to take.
- Find the Right Plan: By considering your health, financial situation, and preferences, brokers match you with coverage that works for you—not just today but in the long run.
- Provide Ongoing Advocacy: Your broker doesn’t stop at enrollment. They’re your advocate, helping to resolve claim issues, file grievances, and ensure your needs are met holistically.
With a broker by your side, you’re not just choosing a health plan—you’re gaining a partner who’s committed to supporting your Medicare journey every step of the way.
Please contact our office today if you have any questions on what changes your are allowed to make during this MAOEP and GEP Enrollment period, or, if you are a ‘first time’ Medicare Enrollee and would like assistance with finding suitable coverage that fits your health needs.