Understanding the Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

A Special Enrollment Period is essentially a second chance to make changes to your Medicare coverage when specific qualifying events occur. SEPs exist because life can be unpredictable—people move, employers change their health benefits, natural disasters disrupt daily life, and unexpected hardships occur.

Medicare designed SEPs to ensure beneficiaries aren’t penalized for circumstances beyond their control.

During a SEP, you may be able to change your Part D prescription drug coverage and, in some cases, switch between original Medicare and Medicare Advantage. However, it’s critical to note that not all SEPs allow all types of changes.

For example, if you missed the annual window while on original Medicare, most SEPs allow you to adjust your Part D coverage only. Switching to Medicare Advantage generally requires a qualifying situation that specifically permits that type of change.