Glossary · Medicare

What is creditable coverage?

For Medicare drug coverage, creditable coverage is coverage similar in value to Part D. Going 63 days or more without it after you are first eligible can lead to a Part D late enrollment penalty.

Definition and figures from Medicare.gov, HealthCare.gov glossary, checked October 23, 2026. This page explains the term; it does not recommend a plan.

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Creditable coverage: the facts

ItemFactSource
Part D rule63 days or more without it can trigger a penaltyMedicare.gov: Avoid late enrollment penalties
HealthCare.gov listGroup plans, individual insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, and othersHealthCare.gov glossary: Creditable coverage

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What does creditable coverage mean in health insurance?

For Medicare drug coverage, creditable coverage is coverage similar in value to Part D. Going 63 days or more without it after you are first eligible can lead to a Part D late enrollment penalty.

Source: Medicare.gov: Avoid late enrollment penalties; HealthCare.gov glossary: Creditable coverage. Data as of October 23, 2026. Last updated October 23, 2026. How we source data. Spotted an error? Send a correction.

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