Medicare Enrollment Periods

Important Enrollment Dates

Members may enroll in the plan only during specific times of the year. Contact Tufts Health Plan Medicare Preferred for more information.

Enrolling in Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plans

Please consult the dates below for times you are able to enroll or change coverage.

Initial Election Period: Just Turning 65

If you’re just turning 65, you may enroll 3 months before, the month of, and 3 months after you become eligible for Medicare.

Special Election Period: Over 65 and no longer covered through an employer

If you’re over 65 and will no longer receive coverage through an employer, please call us about when you should enroll. Generally, the Medicare Part B enrollment period runs for eight months from the time you (or your spouse) retire or lose your health insurance (whichever comes first).

Annual Election Period: October 15 to December 7

The Annual Enrollment Period is from October 15 to December 7. During this time period you can review your medical and prescription drug coverage. You can choose to keep your current coverage or make changes to your coverage for the upcoming year. If you decide to change to a new plan your membership for your new plan’s coverage begins on January 1st of the following year.  If you received an enrollment packet and want to enroll, your application must be received no later than December 7th.

Annual Disenrollment Period: January 1 to February 14 of each year.

The Annual Disenrollment Period happens every year from January 1 to February 14. During this time period, you can cancel your Medicare Advantage enrollment and switch to Original Medicare. If you choose to switch to Original Medicare you may also choose a separate Medicare prescription drug plan at the same time. Your membership will end on the first day of the month after we get your request to switch to Original Medicare. If you also choose to enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan, your membership in the drug plan will begin at the same time.

Enrolling in a Medicare Supplement Plan

You may enroll anytime of the year with an effective date of the 1st of the following month.