Medicare Basics · Southeast
New to Medicare? Start Here
If you are turning 65, your Initial Enrollment Period is a 7-month window around your birthday month. The primary window to enroll in Part B, choose Advantage or Medigap, and add Part D without late penalties. Missing Part B or Part D deadlines can trigger permanent premium surcharges, so aligning all three coverage decisions in the same window is critical.
Medicare mailers and phone calls can be overwhelming. We walk beneficiaries through Parts A, B, C, and D, enrollment windows, and how to choose coverage that fits your doctors, prescriptions, and budget.
Last updated Jul 11, 2026
Enrollment period checker
Find which Medicare enrollment window may apply right now. Special Enrollment Periods are fact-specific. An agent or SHIP counselor should confirm before you enroll.
Educational guide only. SEP eligibility depends on your specific facts and CMS rules. Your contact form will note this tool result so Max can confirm the correct window.
What We Review
Your Initial Enrollment Period
The 7-month window around your 65th birthday is your most important enrollment window. Missing it can result in permanent late enrollment penalties on your Part B and Part D premiums.
Part A vs. Part B
Most people qualify for premium-free Part A (hospital insurance). Part B (medical insurance) has a monthly premium and covers doctor visits, outpatient care, and preventive services.
Choosing Supplemental Coverage
Original Medicare alone leaves significant gaps. You will typically choose either a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) or a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan to fill those gaps.
Prescription Drug Coverage
Most beneficiaries need Medicare Part D for prescription drug coverage. Delaying enrollment when you first become eligible can result in a permanent monthly penalty.
Working Past 65
If you or your spouse has active employer coverage, special rules govern when you must enroll. Getting this right avoids penalties and coverage gaps.
How we're paid: SwitchBlue provides no-cost Medicare guidance to consumers. When you enroll in a plan through our agency, we may receive a standard commission from the insurance carrier. You pay the same plan premium whether you enroll on your own or through our agency.
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- Licensed in FL, AL, GA & NC
- Virtual appointments across the Southeast
What to Know Before You Enroll
Your Initial Enrollment Period is the 7-month window around your 65th birthday. Missing Part B or Part D deadlines can result in lifelong premium penalties.
We walk new enrollees through Parts A, B, C, and D, help you compare Advantage vs. Medigap paths, and verify that your doctors and prescriptions are covered before you enroll.
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