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When: Begins 3 months before the month of your client's 65th birthday and ends 3 months after your client's 65th birthday month (7-month window).

Why It's Important: This is the first opportunity for most people to enroll in Medicare Part A and Part B.

When: January 1 - March 31 each year.

Why It's Important: If your client's current Medicare Advantage plan is not meeting their needs, they can switch to another Medicare Advantage plan that better meets their needs or return to Original Medicare (and join a Part D plan) during this period.

When: October 15 - December 7 each year.

Why It's Important: During this time, Medicare beneficiaries can review plans and enroll in a new Medicare Advantage or Medicare Part D plan that better fits their needs or switch back to Original Medicare (and join a Part D plan). Changes made during AEP take effect on January 1 of the following year.

When: Starts the month your client turns 65 and enrolls in Medicare Part B, lasting 6 months. *Some plans allow enrollment up to 6 months before the beneficiaries 65th birthday.

Why It's Important: During this period , your client can buy any Medigap policy available in their area without medical underwriting.

When: Varies depending on qualifying events (e.g., losing employer coverage).

Why It's Important: If your client qualifies for an SEP, they can enroll in Original Medicare, select a new Medicare Advantage plan, or leave their Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare (and join a Part D plan) outside of the regular enrollment periods without penalty.

When: Same as the Initial Enrollment Period, Annual Enrollment Period, and General Enrollment Period.

Why It's Important: Enrolling in or changing a Part D prescription drug plan must be done within these timeframes.