Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage - Steps to Choosing a Medicare Drug Plan

When can I join a Medicare drug plan?

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Generally, you can join, switch, or drop a Medicare drug plan at the following times:

  • When you first become eligible for Medicare (3 months before you turn age 65 to3 months after the month you turn age 65).
  • If you get Medicare due to a disability, you can join during the 3 months before to3 months after your 25th month of cash disability payments.
  • From November 15–December 31 each year. Your coverage will begin on January1 of the following year.
  • At any time if you qualify for extra help. This includes people who have Medicare and Medicaid, belong to a Medicare Savings Program, get Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits (but not Medicaid), and those who apply and qualify.

In certain situations, you may be able to join, switch, or drop Medicare drug plans at other times, including the following:

  • You permanently move out of your drug plan’s service area
  • Your plan stops offering prescription drug coverage
  • You enter, live in, or leave a nursing home
For most people, joining when you are first eligible means you will pay a lower monthly premium. Waiting and joining after you are first eligible may mean paying a late enrollment penalty.