Key Takeaways of Medicare 2021 and 2022 Enrollment Periods

If there’s one thing older adults need to know about, it’s when and how they can enroll in an Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage plan. Fortunately, all of the dates for 2021 and 2022 have officially been announced. Thus, it’s time to break down all of the information so that we can provide you with the key takeaways of the Medicare 2021 and 2022 enrollment periods.

Everything You Need to Know About Medicare 2021 Enrollment Periods

Since there are multiple enrollment periods throughout the year, it’s best if we start in chronological order. Let’s take a look at all the enrollment periods for 2021 in order of when they will begin during the upcoming calendar year.

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (January 1 – March 31)

The first open enrollment period of 2021 will be the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (MAOE) period, which will run from January 1 – March 31. These dates have not changed from 2020. During this period, you can choose a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan, switch between MA plans, or switch from MA to Original Medicare.

Part A / Part B General Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31)

If you missed your Initial Enrollment Period or wish to switch to add either Medicare Part A or Part B to your plan, you may do so during the 2021 General Enrollment Period, which will take place from January 1 – March 31, 2021.

Medicare Open Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7)

The standard Medicare Open Enrollment (MOE) period will begin on October 15, 2021 and ends on December 7, 2021. As you can see, neither the MAOE nor the MOE has changed their dates for 2021. During this period, you can shop for new plans of any kind.

5-Star Enrollment Period (December 8 – November 30)

Though not everyone will qualify for this Special Enrollment Period, it will begin on December 8, 2021 and ends on November 30, 2022. During this period, you can choose a 5-star Medicare Part D or Medicare Advantage plan, as long as you live in an area that qualifies for one of these plans.

Everything You Need to Know About Medicare 2022 Enrollment Periods

Fortunately, if you have a firm grasp of the 2021 Medicare enrollment period schedule, then you’re set for 2022 as well. It’s important to note that none of the enrollment periods are set to change. So, here’s when you can enroll in 2022:

• Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (January 1 – March 31)
• Part A / Part B General Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31)
• Medicare Open Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7)
• 5-Star Enrollment Period (December 8 – November 30)

The Bottom Line

Knowing when you can enroll in different Medicare plans is extremely important. Be sure to stay updated with Time for 65 on all of the latest changes. It could end up saving you money and ensuring that you get the plan that you need!

If you’d like to learn more about the Medicare 2021 and 2022 enrollment periods or your Medicare coverage options, feel free to fill out this form or give us a call anytime. Time for 65’s partnered licensed agents are focused on giving you the information you need, with zero pressure to enroll in a plan.