Medicare Basics for Caregivers

Frequently Asked Questions

11. When can a person sign up for a Medicare drug plan (Part D)? - cont'd

There is an Annual Coordinated Election Period (AEP) sometimes called Part D "Fall Open Enrollment." Starting in 2011, the AEP is October 15 through December 7 each year. During the AEP people can join, change, or drop prescription drug coverage. The change will be effective January 1 of the following year.

There are special situations that give a person a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), such as a permanent move out of the plan's service area, being eligible for the extra help (low-income subsidy), or moving into, residing in, or leaving a long-term care facility (like a nursing home). The time period of the SEP depends on the reason for the Special Enrollment Period.

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