Medicare Resources & Guides
Everything you need to know about Medicare, enrollment periods, plan options, and making the most of your coverage.
Medicare Quick Guides
Start here to understand the basics of Medicare and your coverage options.
Medicare 101
New to Medicare? Learn about the four parts of Medicare, who qualifies, and how to get started with your coverage.
Read the GuideAdvantage vs. Supplement
Understand the key differences between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans to make an informed choice.
Compare PlansEnrollment Periods
Don't miss your window. Learn about Initial Enrollment, Annual Enrollment, and Special Enrollment Periods.
View TimelineUnderstanding Costs
Premiums, deductibles, copays, coinsurance — learn what each cost means and how to minimize your out-of-pocket spending.
Learn MorePrescription Drug Coverage
Learn about Medicare Part D, how formularies work, and how to ensure your medications are covered.
Drug Plan GuideAvoiding Penalties
Late enrollment can cost you. Learn about Medicare penalties and how to avoid them by enrolling on time.
Penalty GuideImportant Enrollment Periods
Knowing when you can enroll is just as important as knowing which plan to choose.
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
3 months before to 3 months after your 65th birthday month
This is your first chance to enroll in Medicare. It's a 7-month window centered around the month you turn 65. This is the best time to sign up to avoid late penalties.
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
October 15 – December 7 each year
During AEP, you can switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage (or vice versa), change your Medicare Advantage plan, or join/switch/drop a Part D drug plan. Changes take effect January 1.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (OEP)
January 1 – March 31 each year
If you're already in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can switch to a different Advantage plan or drop your Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare during this period.
Medigap Open Enrollment Period
6 months starting the month you turn 65 and have Part B
This is the best time to buy a Medigap policy. During this period, insurance companies cannot deny you coverage or charge more due to pre-existing health conditions.
Special Enrollment Periods (SEP)
Varies based on qualifying life events
Certain life events — like moving, losing employer coverage, or qualifying for Medicaid — may give you a Special Enrollment Period to make changes outside the regular enrollment windows.
Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement
Not sure which type of plan is right for you? Here's a side-by-side comparison.
| Feature | Medicare Advantage | Medicare Supplement |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Replaces Original Medicare | Supplements Original Medicare |
| Monthly premiums | Often $0 (plus Part B) | Varies by plan and age |
| Doctor choice | Network-based (HMO/PPO) | Any Medicare-accepting doctor |
| Drug coverage | Usually included | Separate Part D plan needed |
| Extra benefits | Dental, vision, hearing, fitness | Not typically included |
| Out-of-pocket max | Yes, annual limit | No (but costs are predictable) |
| Referrals needed | Often (HMO plans) | No |
| Travel coverage | Limited | Many plans cover foreign travel |
| Best for | Those wanting all-in-one coverage | Those wanting provider freedom |
General Medicare FAQ
Still Have Questions?
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