Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is the 7-month window around your 65th birthday when you can first sign up for Medicare. It starts 3 months before the month you turn 65, includes your birthday month, and ends 3 months after. Enter your birthday to see your exact window.
Tip: if your birthday is on the first of the month, Medicare treats you as turning 65 the previous month, which can shift your window one month earlier.
How the timing works
Signing up during the first three months of your IEP means your coverage can start the month you turn 65, with no gap. Waiting until your birthday month or later can delay the start of your coverage. If you miss your IEP entirely and don't qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, you may face a late-enrollment penalty and have to wait for the General Enrollment Period.
For educational estimates only. This tool gives a general estimate based on the numbers you enter. It is not a quote, an application, or a determination of benefits, eligibility, or price. Nothing is stored from what you type here — the estimate is calculated in your browser.
Figures that change every year — such as the standard Part B premium, the Part D national base beneficiary premium, and IRMAA income brackets — are entered by you so the math always reflects the current year. Always verify current amounts at Medicare.gov or 1‑800‑MEDICARE.
Maru Insurance is not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1‑800‑MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.
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Written and reviewed by Vadim Marusin, a licensed independent insurance agent. Maru Insurance is an independent agency (WA License WAOIC #1365574, FL License #G363233) representing multiple A-rated carriers across Washington and Florida.