Medicare General Enrollment Period (GEP)
The General Enrollment Period (GEP) runs January 1–March 31 each year. It's for people who missed their Initial Enrollment Period and don't qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. Coverage starts the first of the month after you sign up — and a permanent Part B late-enrollment penalty (about 10% of the premium for each full year you delayed) usually applies.
The General Enrollment Period (GEP) is Medicare's yearly safety net: if you missed your Initial Enrollment Period and don't qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, this is how you get onto Part B. It runs January 1 through March 31 every year. See where it fits among all the windows on our enrollment periods overview.
How It Works
- When: January 1 – March 31 each year
- Coverage starts: the first day of the month after you enroll
- Who: people who missed their IEP and have no SEP
- Catch: a permanent Part B late-enrollment penalty usually applies
The Late-Enrollment Penalty
This is the part that stings. The Part B penalty adds about 10% to your premium for every full year you could have had Part B but didn't — and it's permanent. It's calculated on the standard premium ($202.90/month in 2026) and never goes away. Our missed-enrollment guide breaks the penalty math down further.
Before You Use the GEP — Check for a SEP
Many people who think they need the GEP actually qualify for a penalty-free Special Enrollment Period — especially anyone who had active employer coverage. It's worth a two-minute check with us before you enroll and accept a penalty you may not owe. Free, anywhere in the Uintah Basin or by phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who uses the General Enrollment Period?
When does coverage start if I use the GEP?
How big is the late penalty?
Sources
- General Enrollment Period & Part B late penalty — Medicare.gov
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