Understand Medicare Parts
2-4 hoursLearn Part A (hospital), Part B (medical), Part C (Medicare Advantage), Part D (prescriptions), and Medigap supplemental options.
Field context
This workflow is part of 1 niche field
Free step-by-step medicare enrollment for Americans turning 65. Plan medicare enrollment with calculators and checklists covering understand medicare parts.
Learn Part A (hospital), Part B (medical), Part C (Medicare Advantage), Part D (prescriptions), and Medigap supplemental options.
Decide Original Medicare + Medigap + Part D vs Medicare Advantage (all-in-one). Consider doctor networks, travel, and prescription needs.
Enroll during Initial Enrollment Period (3 months before to 3 months after 65th birthday). Avoid lifetime Part B late enrollment penalty.
Compare Part D and Medicare Advantage plans each October 15 - December 7. Formulary and networks change yearly.
Compare Original Medicare vs Medicare Advantage total costs. · Compare Part D plans by medication formulary.
Coordinate Medicare enrollment with Social Security claiming.
Budget Part B, D, and Medigap premiums in retirement.
Plan HSA use before Medicare enrollment at 65.
Key deadlines for Medicare enrollment.
| Period | When | What You Can Do | Penalty If Missed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial (IEP) | 3 mo before to 3 mo after 65 | Enroll in A, B, D, Medigap | Part B: 10%/yr permanent |
| General (GEP) | Jan 1 - Mar 31 | Enroll Part B if missed IEP | Part B penalty applies |
| Annual (AEP) | Oct 15 - Dec 7 | Switch MA or Part D | N/A |
| Medigap OEP | 6 mo after Part B | Guaranteed Medigap issue | Medical underwriting after |
The 10% permanent penalty per year without Part B adds up fast — a 2-year delay means 20% higher premiums for life.
Six months after Part B is your only guaranteed Medigap enrollment — pre-existing conditions cannot be excluded during this window.
State Health Insurance Assistance Programs offer free unbiased Medicare help — call 877-839-2675.