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When can I enroll?

Enrollment Periods for Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plans

You can join, switch, or drop a Medicare Advantage or Prescription Drug Plan at these times:

Initial Enrollment Period: When you first become eligible for Medicare (the seven-month period that begins three months before the month you turn age 65, includes the month you turn age 65, and ends three months after the month you turn age 65).

Annual Enrollment Period: Between October 15 through December 7 each year. Your coverage will begin on January 1 of the following year.

Special Enrollment Periods: In most cases, you must stay enrolled for that calendar year starting the date your coverage begins. However, in certain situations, you may be able to join, switch, or drop a Medicare Advantage or Prescription Drug Plan at other times. Some of these situations include the following:

  • If you move out of your plan's service area.
  • If you have both Medicare and Medicaid.
  • If you qualify for Extra Help to pay for your prescription drug costs.
  • If you live in an institution (like a nursing home).

If you get Medicare due to a disability, you can join during the three months before to three months after your 25th month of disability. You will have another chance to join three months before the month you turn age 65 to three months after the month you turn age 65.

In the fall of 2011, the Annual Enrollment Period dates will change to give you more time if you want to choose and join a Medicare health or prescription drug plan. You will be able to switch your coverage between October 15, 2011—December 7, 2011. If you make a change during this period, your new coverage will begin January 1, 2012.


NEW MEMBER CARDS

Once you enroll, your new member card should arrive no later than ten (10) calendar days from receipt of CMS confirmation of enrollment, or by the last day of the first month of enrollment, whichever occurs first.

 

ANOC (Annual Notification of Change Document) and EOC (Evidence of Coverage)

Each year, you’ll receive Evidence of Coverage (EOC) and Annual Notice of Change (ANOC).  The EOC gives you details about what the plan covers, how much you pay, and more. The ANOC includes any changes in coverage, costs, or service area that will be effective in January.  You can expect to receive this document no later than September 30 of each year.