Already on Medicare? We'll review your plan free
Already on Medicare? We'll review your plan free
Already on Medicare? We'll review your plan free
Medicare

Your First Medicare Enrollment: A Step-by-Step Guide

April 14, 2026
·
LaQuentin Jenkins

Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is a 7-month window: the 3 months before your 65th birthday, the month of, and the 3 months after. Missing it can mean lifelong premium penalties.

What to do in each window

The earlier you enroll, the smoother your transition. Here's how to think about each phase.

Three months before

Compare Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare + Supplement options. Get pricing for your zip code.

The month of

Confirm your Part B start date. Set up Part D if going with Original Medicare.

Three months after

Last chance to enroll without penalty. Don't wait — some plans book up.

TALK TO A REAL PERSON

Give us a call. We'll be glad to talk.

When you call, you reach a licensed agent who already knows your file and has the time to help, the same business day, every time.

PREFER TO CALL US DIRECTLY?(713) 201-9402
Open Monday – Friday
9am to 5pm Central Time