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Late Enrollment

What happens if you miss your window — and how to fix it.

If you missed your Initial Enrollment Period and don't qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, you'll typically sign up during the General Enrollment Period (Jan 1 – Mar 31).

Key points

  • Coverage from General Enrollment starts the month after you enroll.
  • You may owe a Part B late-enrollment penalty for life.
  • A Special Enrollment Period may still be available if you had qualifying coverage.

Next steps

Penalties explained →Special Enrollment Periods →Penalty checker →Ask about late enrollment →

Related topics

Costs

Premiums, deductibles, copays — plain-English breakdown.

Penalties

Late enrollment penalties for Part A, B, and D — how to avoid them.

IRMAA

Income-related monthly adjustment amounts for Part B and D.

Income Rules

How income affects what you pay for Medicare.

Educational only. This information is not personalized advice. For your specific situation, verify at Medicare.gov or speak with a licensed Medicare professional.