Your first opportunity to enroll in Part B is usually when you turn 65, in your Initial Enrollment Period. You may enroll in Part B as soon as three months before the month you turn 65. In this case, your Part B coverage will begin the first of the month in which you turn 65. You may also enroll in Part B during the three months following your birthday month. Your effective date will be the first of the following month after you enroll. If you enroll during the third month following your birthday month, your effective date will be the first of that month.
If you do not enroll in Part B during your Initial Enrollment Period, you may enroll in Part B during the General Enrollment Period between January 1 - March 31. Your coverage will be effective the first of the next month. Late enrollment penalties may apply.
Certain life events may qualify you to enroll in Part B during the year through a Special Enrollment Period. The most common Special Enrollment Period occurs when you leave a group health plan based on the current employment of yourself or your spouse. You’ll have an 8-month period to sign up for Part B without incurring a late enrollment penalty.