Medicare

Initial Enrollment Period Calculator

Understand the seven-month Initial Enrollment Period around a person's 65th birthday month.

Initial Enrollment Period

Find the 7-month window around turning 65.

Medicare says the Initial Enrollment Period starts 3 months before the month you turn 65 and ends 3 months after that month. Coverage timing can change if your birthday is on the first day of a month.

Birth monthBirth yearBirthday on the first of the month?

65th birthday monthAugust 2026

This anchors the standard Initial Enrollment Period.

IEP startsMay 2026

The first month in the 7-month window.

IEP endsNovember 30, 2026

The last day of the third month after the birthday month.

Earliest usual coverage monthAugust 2026

If you sign up before the birthday month, coverage usually starts here.

If you sign up in the birthday month or during the 3 months after, Medicare says Part B and premium Part A generally start the next month. This tool does not handle disability, ESRD, ALS, employer coverage, or Special Enrollment Periods.

What this estimate is for

Most people first become eligible for Medicare around age 65. The Initial Enrollment Period usually includes the 3 months before the birthday month, the birthday month, and the 3 months after.

What you need before calculating

You need the month and year someone turns 65, plus any details about current employer coverage, Social Security benefits, disability benefits, or retiree coverage.

Why it matters

Enrolling at the right time can help avoid gaps, delays, and penalties. People with employer coverage should review whether they should enroll right away or use a later Special Enrollment Period.

Use the estimate wisely

Medicare timing, penalties, and income rules can change the real answer.

Schedule a free meeting Read the related guide All calculators