Missing your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is like missing the last ferry out of Chelan to Stehekin—you can still get where you’re going, but it might be a bit more complicated and costly. The IEP is your first opportunity to enroll in Medicare, and it spans seven months (the three months before you turn 65, the month of your birthday, and the three months after). If you miss this boat, you might face late enrollment penalties.
Suzie tip: If you are turning 65 in October, November or December then select your appointment early as your Initial Enrollment overlaps with the Annual Enrollment Period and it is a very busy time.
But don’t worry, Suzie from Wenatchee Insurance is here to help you catch the next one. She’s like the friendly dock attendant who knows all the schedules. If you’ve missed your IEP, Suzie can help you sign up during the General Enrollment Period (GEP), which runs from January 1 to March 31 each year. However, enrolling late could mean higher premiums for Part B, like paying extra to charter a private boat instead of catching the ferry.
What if I am working with a employer & have a health plan?
Suzie can also check if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), maybe because you were still working and had employer coverage. This is like getting a free ticket for the next ferry because of a rain check.
So, if you’ve missed the Medicare boat, don’t panic—Suzie will make sure you find the next best option to get you where you need to go.
Suzie tip: If you have a plan on the Washington Healthplanfinder, the minute that you become Medicare eligible then you lose the advanced premium tax credits. It is worthwhile to talk to Suzie before this occurs.
Suzie has been assisting people in Washington state for over a decade selecting Medicare Prescription and Medicare Advantage Plans. She has people selecting her months in advance for these updates. If you do not see her available then call and we will do our best for a personalized appointment.
Topics: health insurance, Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Wenatchee Insurance, Suzie, Chelan County, Okanogan, Grant County, Douglas County, 509, Leavenworth, Quincy, Cashmere, Entiat,
