If you’re turning 65 or already on Medicare, you’ve probably heard warnings about “missing the deadline.” The truth is, Medicare deadlines can be confusing, and the penalties for missing them can last a lifetime.
That’s where Senior Benefit Services steps in. For more than 40 years, our advisors have helped seniors in Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania understand when and how to enroll without stress, guesswork, or costly mistakes.
Because peace of mind shouldn’t have an expiration date.
Medicare enrollment isn’t one date. It’s a series of windows that open and close throughout your life. Understanding which one applies to you is the key to staying covered and avoiding penalties.
This is your first opportunity to sign up for Medicare. It’s a 7-month window starting three months before your 65th birthday, including your birthday month, and ending three months after.
If you enroll early, your coverage typically begins the first day of your birthday month. Wait too long, and you could face both a gap in coverage and late fees.
If you miss your initial window, the next chance to enroll is from January 1 to March 31 each year. But there’s a catch. Coverage doesn’t begin until the following month after you enroll, and penalties may already apply.
Every year from October 15 to December 7, you can review, switch, or drop Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug (Part D) plans. Changes take effect January 1.
This is the time most seniors rethink their coverage, often with help from trusted advisors who compare plan options side by side.
If you already have a Medicare Advantage plan, you can make one switch between January 1 and March 31, either to another Advantage plan or back to Original Medicare.
Life happens. Job changes, relocations, or losing employer coverage can trigger special windows. SEPs let you sign up or make changes without penalty, but the rules vary. That’s why having an advisor matters.
The federal government uses penalties to encourage timely enrollment. Unfortunately, these penalties are not one-time fees. They can last for years, even for life.
Here’s how they work:
At Senior Benefit Services, our licensed advisors help clients avoid these pitfalls by mapping out every enrollment deadline, verifying creditable coverage, and ensuring your timing aligns with federal rules.
“I almost missed my enrollment window and would’ve paid more for the rest of my life. Senior Benefit Services took the time to explain everything and walked me through each step. I didn’t feel rushed or pressured, just cared for.” Patricia H
Many people turning 65 are still working or covered under a spouse’s employer plan. The tricky part is knowing whether that plan counts as “creditable coverage.”
Creditable coverage means your existing insurance is at least as good as Medicare’s standard coverage. If it qualifies, you can safely delay certain parts (like Part B or D) without penalty.
But not all employer or retiree plans qualify, and that’s where mistakes happen.
At Senior Benefit Services, our advisors review your coverage documents, contact your employer or insurer if needed, and verify in writing that your coverage is creditable. That proof can save you thousands later.
Testimonial
“I didn’t know my wife’s plan wasn’t considered creditable until Senior Benefit Services checked for me. They saved me from a penalty I never saw coming.” Robert J., Frederick, MD
Medicare isn’t one-size-fits-all. The number of choices can be overwhelming between Parts A, B, C, and D, plus Medigap supplements and Advantage plans.
Here’s what sets Senior Benefit Services apart:
Our advisors know the ins and outs of Medicare deadlines and plan structures. With decades of combined experience, we don’t just check boxes. We anticipate challenges before they happen.
We handle the paperwork, deadlines, and plan comparisons so you can focus on your health, not government forms.
Late penalties, missed deadlines, or duplicate coverage can cost thousands over time. We help you avoid them entirely.
From Medicare Advantage and Supplement (Medigap) plans to Prescription Drug (Part D) coverage, our advisors coordinate everything seamlessly.
Our team believes in personal relationships, not call centers. You’ll talk to the same trusted advisor throughout your Medicare journey.
Here’s a quick way to stay on track:
Before You Turn 65:
At Age 65:
Every Fall (Oct 15 to Dec 7):
These steps ensure you’re always protected and never surprised.
For more than four decades, Senior Benefit Services has guided thousands of seniors through their Medicare journey. With offices serving Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania, our mission has remained simple: make Medicare easier.
We’ve earned a reputation for clarity, honesty, and compassionate service, turning what feels like a government maze into a clear, confident path forward.
Testimonial
“They make Medicare make sense. I tell all my friends: don’t do this alone. Senior Benefit Services explains things in plain language and genuinely cares about your future.” Elaine R., Cumberland, MD
There’s no fee for our services. Senior Benefit Services is paid by insurance carriers, not by you. That means you get personalized guidance at no additional cost, and our only job is helping you make the best decision for your needs.
If you miss your Initial Enrollment Period and don’t qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, you’ll have to wait for the General Enrollment Period (Jan 1 to Mar 31). You may also face permanent penalties on your monthly premiums. An advisor can help you avoid this situation by tracking your eligibility and coverage dates.
Yes. You can make changes every year during the Annual Election Period (Oct 15 to Dec 7). You can also make one switch during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (Jan 1 to Mar 31).
The federal rules and deadlines are the same, but plan availability varies by county. Senior Benefit Services helps clients compare plans specific to Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania so you see exactly what fits your region and your budget.
Experience, compassion, and clarity. Our advisors don’t rush or push. They listen, educate, and guide you toward the right coverage with patience and professionalism because this isn’t just about insurance. It’s about peace of mind.
The biggest mistake most people make with Medicare isn’t choosing the wrong plan. It’s waiting too long to ask for help.
With Senior Benefit Services, you’re never alone in this process. Our experts simplify every step, clarify every deadline, and ensure you make decisions that protect your health and your wallet for life.
Because when it comes to Medicare enrollment deadlines, the smartest move is starting early with someone you can trust.
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