Medicare Part B Enrollment: Key Facts
| Who This Applies To | Age 65 Medicare beneficiaries |
|---|---|
| Enrollment Period | Initial Enrollment Period or Special Enrollment Period |
| Timing | IEP: 7-month window around your 65th birthday. SEP: 8 months after losing employer coverage |
| Key Numbers | Standard premium: $174.70/month. IRMAA surcharge applies for income over $103,000 (individual) or $206,000 (joint). Late penalty: 10% per 12-month period delayed. |
Overview
Standard premium: $174.70/month. IRMAA surcharge applies for income over $103,000 (individual) or $206,000 (joint). Late penalty: 10% per 12-month period delayed. Understanding your Medicare enrollment windows is critical — missing a deadline can result in permanent premium penalties that follow you for the rest of your Medicare enrollment. This guide covers everything you need to know about medicare part b enrollment.
The Initial Enrollment Period or Special Enrollment Period: Timing and Rules
The Initial Enrollment Period or Special Enrollment Period is your primary opportunity to enroll in Medicare coverage. IEP: 7-month window around your 65th birthday. SEP: 8 months after losing employer coverage. Missing this window without a qualifying Special Enrollment Period can result in late enrollment penalties and gaps in coverage.
What Happens If You Miss the Enrollment Window?
If you miss your enrollment window without a qualifying Special Enrollment Period, you will face two consequences: (1) a coverage gap until the next enrollment period, and (2) a permanent late enrollment penalty added to your monthly premium. For Part B, the penalty is 10% for every 12-month period you were eligible but did not enroll. For Part D, it is 1% per month. These penalties are permanent — they are added to your premium for as long as you have Medicare.
How to Enroll
You can enroll in Medicare online at ssa.gov, by calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213, or by visiting your local Social Security office. If you are already receiving Social Security benefits when you turn 65, you will be automatically enrolled in Parts A and B and will receive your Medicare card in the mail approximately 3 months before your 65th birthday.
Medicare Costs in 2026
| Part | Premium | Deductible | Cost-Sharing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part A (Hospital) | $0 (if 40+ work credits) | $1,632 per benefit period | $408/day days 61-90 |
| Part B (Medical) | $174.70/month (standard) | $240/year | 20% after deductible |
| Part D (Drugs) | Varies by plan (~$55/mo avg) | Up to $545/year | Varies by plan tier |
| Medicare Advantage | $0 to $100+/month | Varies by plan | Copays/coinsurance vary |
Getting Help with Medicare Decisions
Every state has a free State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) that provides unbiased Medicare counseling at no cost. SHIP counselors can help you compare plans, understand your enrollment options, and avoid costly mistakes. Find your state’s SHIP at shiphelp.org or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
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