What To Do if You Miss Medicares December 7 Deadline

Key Takeaways

• Medicare Advantage members can make changes during the first quarter if circumstances change, such as discovering a doctor is no longer in-network or finding better dental benefits at another carrier
• The Benenz Act now allows people who missed Part B enrollment deadlines to enroll in January with coverage effective in February, rather than waiting until July
• Original Medicare (Part A, B, and D) members cannot switch plans until the next annual election period, unlike Medicare Advantage members who get a first-quarter do-over
• Medigap plan carriers can be switched at any time outside the enrollment period to find more competitive rates, though you may face medical underwriting
• Consult a trusted, competent Medicare professional to guide enrollment decisions, as the complexity and cost of making wrong decisions often aren't realized until it's too late