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Enrollment Periods

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Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) starts three months before your 65th birthday month and ends three months after, giving you a seven-month window to enroll in Assurance Life Group plans.If you’re not already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits, it’s crucial to sign up for your coverage during this period.

Even if you’re not retiring at age 65, you can still enroll in coverage during your IEP. Once you retire, you have the option to transition to an Advantage plan for broader coverage, including services like dental, vision, hearing, and critical illness.

Annual Enrollment Period

The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), also known as Open Enrollment or the Annual Election Period, takes place every year from October 15 to December 7. Any changes made during this time will take effect on January 1 of the following year.This period is especially important for those with Advantage plans and Prescription Drug plans (Part D). It’s your opportunity to review and adjust your coverage to meet your needs for the upcoming year.

FAQs About Annual Enrollment Period

Who does the Annual Enrollment Period apply to?

Anyone enrolled in Assurance Life Group coverage can participate in the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). This includes individuals with Original Medicare (Parts A and B), Advantage plans (Part C), and Prescription Drug coverage (Part D).

If you have Original Medicare with a Supplement plan, AEP is a great time to review your standalone Prescription Drug coverage. It’s also an opportunity to assess whether changes in your health or budget require you to consider a Medicare Advantage plan.

What can I do during the Annual Enrollment Period?

The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) allows you to make several changes to your coverage:

  • Switch: Move from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan, or vice versa.
  • Change: Switch between different Medicare Advantage plans.
  • Enroll: Join a Part D prescription drug plan if you don’t have one.
  • Switch: Change your Part D plan if you already have one.
  • Drop: Cancel your Part D coverage if you no longer need it.

Why should I review my coverage during AEP?

It’s important to review your coverage each year, as plans can change. Premiums, deductibles, copays, covered services, and provider networks may be updated annually. By reviewing your options, you can make sure you’re enrolled in the plan that best fits your needs and budget for the upcoming year.

Do I have to change my plan during AEP?

No, you’re under no obligation to purchase anything. However, if you find a plan that suits you, we’re here to guide you through the enrollment process.

General Enrollment Period

If you’re eligible for Assurance Life Group coverage but missed your initial enrollment, don’t worry. The General Enrollment Period (GEP) runs from January 1st to March 31st each year, giving you another chance to enroll in Parts A and B.The GEP is an opportunity for those who missed their initial enrollment period or any special enrollment periods, such as after losing job-based coverage.

Many individuals delay enrolling in Part B if they’re still working and have employer-sponsored health insurance. While this can be a smart decision, some may miss their initial sign-up window or experience changes in their employment that make enrolling in Medicare a better option. Keep in mind, you may face a Part B Late Enrollment Penalty if you enroll late.

Special Enrollment Periods

You may be eligible to enroll in Assurance Life Group coverage outside of the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) or Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) if you meet certain criteria. These opportunities are categorized into several situations, and while we’ll cover some common ones here, we recommend visiting the Medicare.gov page for a full list.If you believe you’re eligible for a Special Enrollment Period, a SmartMatch licensed insurance agent can help evaluate your situation and determine your eligibility.

You’ve Lost Current Coverage

If you lose your existing coverage, whether through employment, a spouse, or another source, you may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period to join a Medicare Advantage or Prescription Drug plan. Be sure to notify your plan provider promptly to understand your options and timing for enrollment.

You’ve Moved

If you’ve moved, your new address may fall outside your current plan’s service area, or it may offer new plan options.In either case, you can switch to a new Medicare Advantage or Prescription Drug plan. The timeline for making changes depends on how quickly you notify your current plan.

You Have Other Coverage Choices

If you gain access to other coverage options, such as through a new job, retirement, or other benefits, you may be eligible to switch your Medicare plan during a Special Enrollment Period. This allows you to explore different coverage options to better meet your health and financial needs.

Other Enrollment Periods

After you’ve enrolled in your Assurance Life Group coverage, there are additional periods for making changes to specific aspects of your plan. These periods are important for reviewing and adjusting your coverage as needed.
These include the Assurance Life Group Open Enrollment Period for those with supplementary coverage, and the Assurance Life Group Advantage Open Enrollment Period for those with Advantage plans.