An individual missed the Initial Enrollment Period for Medicare Part B. During the annual General Enrollment Period (GEP), when can they sign up?

Why A is correct

The Medicare Part B General Enrollment Period runs from January 1 through March 31 each year, and coverage becomes effective July 1 of that same year. It is the catch-up window for people who missed their Initial Enrollment Period (the seven-month window around the 65th birthday) and do not qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. Enrolling during the GEP typically triggers the Part B late enrollment penalty of 10% for each full 12-month period of delay. The October 15 to December 7 window is the fall Annual Election Period for Medicare Advantage and Part D changes.

Why the other options are wrong

• B) October 15 through December 7 is the fall Annual Election Period for MA and Part D changes, not the Part B General Enrollment Period.
• C) Enrollment is limited to defined windows, and missing the IEP without a SEP brings a late enrollment penalty.
• D) The SEP is a separate right for people with employer coverage; the GEP is the annual window for everyone else.

Memory hook

Missed your 7-month window? GEP is Jan 1 - Mar 31, coverage July 1, plus a penalty.

Why A is correct

The Medicare Part B general enrollment period (GEP) runs from January 1 through March 31 each year for individuals who did not enroll during their initial enrollment period and do not qualify for a special enrollment period. Coverage purchased during the GEP generally begins the following month, and the beneficiary is subject to the late enrollment penalty for each 12-month period of delay. The GEP is distinct from the initial enrollment period around the 65th birthday and from the fall open enrollment period used for Medicare Advantage and Part D plan changes, which is October 15 through December 7.

Why the other options are wrong

• B) October 15 through December 7 is the annual open enrollment period for Medicare Advantage and Part D plan changes, not the Part B GEP.
• C) The 7-month window around the 65th birthday is the initial enrollment period, not the annual general enrollment period.
• D) July 1 through September 30 is not a Medicare Part B enrollment window under the statute.

Memory hook

Missed your window? Part B's second chance opens January 1 and closes March 31.