Glossary · Medicare
What is the General Enrollment Period (GEP)?
The General Enrollment Period lets you sign up for Medicare between January 1 and March 31 each year if you missed your Initial Enrollment Period. Coverage starts the month after you sign up.
Definition and figures from Medicare.gov, checked October 23, 2026. This page explains the term; it does not recommend a plan.
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Expand my textGEP: the facts
| Item | Fact | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Dates | January 1 to March 31 | Medicare.gov: When does Medicare coverage start? |
| Coverage starts | The month after you sign up | Medicare.gov: When does Medicare coverage start? |
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What does GEP mean in health insurance?
The General Enrollment Period lets you sign up for Medicare between January 1 and March 31 each year if you missed your Initial Enrollment Period. Coverage starts the month after you sign up.