Medicare beneficiaries can apply for Part D drug coverage as long as they are eligible for Medicare Part A. You do not need Part B to apply, but you will need your Medicare beneficiary number.
Initial Enrollment Period
Your first chance to enroll is during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)—a 7-month window around your 65th birthday. Coverage can start as early as the first day of your birthday month (or the month before, if your birthday falls on the 1st).
Annual Enrollment Period
Part D plans run on a calendar year. Each year, from October 15 to December 7, you can review, compare, and switch plans for the following year. Changes take effect on January 1.
Special Enrollment Periods
You may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you lose coverage through no fault of your own—for example, moving to a new state or leaving employer coverage. In most cases, you’ll have 63 days from the end of your prior coverage to sign up for a new plan.
General Enrollment Period
From January 1 to March 31, you can make changes if you missed your initial enrollment or need to adjust your Medicare Advantage or Part D coverage. This includes switching Advantage plans or moving back to Original Medicare with a stand-alone Part D plan.
For more information about Medicare Part D enrollment, read our complete article here.
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