Medicare is full of deadlines. Miss one? You could be hit with higher premiums—for life.
Let’s break it down so you never miss what matters.

The Problem

Medicare is not automatic for everyone. And with so many letters (A, B, D, G…) and enrollment periods (IEP, GEP, SEP…), it’s easy to get overwhelmed.

Many people assume they’ll “just get enrolled,” but the truth is:

Missing the right Medicare deadline can cost you thousands over time—and leave you without coverage when you need it most.

The Guide

At Mere, we’re licensed agents who specialize in Medicare and serve people all across Jacksonville and Northeast Florida. We’ve seen too many folks get penalized just because no one told them when or how to enroll.

We’re here to be your Medicare timeline tracker.
Here’s everything you need to know, in plain English.

The Plan: Understand the 3 Key Enrollment Periods

1. Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

This is your first chance to enroll when you turn 65.

When: 3 months before → the month of → 3 months after your 65th birthday
What to do: Enroll in Part A and/or Part B. Review drug coverage and supplemental options.

Missed it? You may have to wait for the GEP and pay a penalty.

2. General Enrollment Period (GEP)

This is the “catch-up” period if you missed your IEP.

When: January 1 to March 31
Coverage starts: The first of the month after you enroll

The catch: You’ll likely pay a 10% late penalty for life for each 12-month period you delayed enrolling in Part B.

3. Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

This is for people who delayed Medicare because they had employer coverage.

When: Within 8 months of losing job-based insurance
Why it matters: You can avoid penalties if you enroll on time and your prior coverage was “creditable.”

What Happens If You Miss a Deadline?

• Part B Late Enrollment Penalty: 10% added to your monthly premium for every 12 months you delayed

• Part D Late Enrollment Penalty: 1% of the national base premium per month without creditable drug coverage

• Delayed Coverage: You might have to wait months before your plan actually begins

Real Story: The Cost of Waiting

Carol, a 66-year-old in Clay County, didn’t realize she needed to sign up for Part B after leaving her job. She waited until the next General Enrollment Period and now pays a permanent penalty, plus she had no coverage for 6 months.

“If I had just known who to call, I would have done it differently.” — Carol

The Success You Want

Imagine feeling:

• Confident you’re enrolled on time

• Clear on what each part of Medicare does

• Safe from penalties and gaps

• Supported by a local team who’s got your back

📞 Your Next Step

Don’t wait and wonder. Whether you’re 64 and planning ahead or already 67 and unsure what to do, we’re here to help.

➡️ Visit www.merebenefits.com/medicare or call us to review your timeline and avoid costly mistakes.

We’ll help you create a custom Medicare roadmap—with zero pressure and no cost to you.

#simplyforyourbenefit
Jacksonville’s trusted Medicare resource since 2010