Updated September 24, 2026. General information only. Not a recommendation of any plan.
When to sign up for Medicare in 2026
Medicare uses several enrollment windows. The names sound similar. The dates do not. This page summarizes the usual windows for people in Utah. Confirm the current rules on Medicare.gov or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY 711).
Quick calendar
| Window | 2026 dates | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) | 7 months around your 65th birthday | First time on Part A and Part B |
| Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) | October 15 – December 7 | Change Advantage or Part D for next year |
| Medicare Advantage OEP | January 1 – March 31 | If you already have Advantage, one change |
| General Enrollment Period (GEP) | January 1 – March 31 | Sign up for Part B if you missed IEP |
| Special Enrollment Period (SEP) | When a qualifying event applies | Job-based coverage ending, a move, and other CMS events |
AEP changes generally take effect January 1 of the following year. So an AEP choice made in fall 2026 usually starts January 1, 2027. Source: CMS Open Enrollment.
Initial Enrollment Period (turning 65)
IEP is a 7-month window. It starts 3 months before the month you turn 65, includes your birthday month, and ends 3 months after. Example: if you turn 65 in June 2026, IEP generally runs March 1 through September 30, 2026. Many people also enroll in Part D or pick Advantage or Medigap in that same season. Missing IEP for Part B without other creditable coverage can trigger a late-enrollment penalty. Source: CMS Original Medicare enrollment.
Annual Enrollment Period
Every year, AEP runs October 15 through December 7. People already on Medicare can join, switch, or drop Medicare Advantage or Part D plans. You do not have to change plans. Review the Annual Notice of Change your plan mails, then decide.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period
If you start the year in a Medicare Advantage plan, MA-OEP runs January 1 through March 31. You generally get one chance in that window to switch to a different Advantage plan or go back to Original Medicare (and a Part D plan if you need drug coverage). This is not the same as AEP.
General Enrollment Period
GEP is January 1 through March 31 for people who need Part B (and sometimes premium Part A) and are not in IEP or an SEP. CMS currently states that coverage typically begins the month after you enroll during GEP. Late-enrollment penalties may still apply if you delayed without a qualifying reason. Confirm on Medicare.gov before you wait.
Special Enrollment Periods
SEPs exist for specific events, such as leaving employer coverage based on current employment, moving out of a plan service area, or qualifying for certain assistance programs. Each SEP has its own clock. A licensed agent can help you compare what we offer in your Utah county. For a full list of options in your ZIP, use Medicare.gov or Utah SHIP / UMAP at 1-800-541-7735.
We do not offer every plan available in your area. This page does not recommend a plan.
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