Medicare Enrollment Checklist
A plain-language checklist of the Medicare enrollment periods, the decisions to research and the documents to gather — so you can approach enrollment organised and on time.
- A personal timeline for your Initial Enrollment Period
- The general enrollment windows and what each one is for
- A list of questions to research for each coverage path
- Where to get free, unbiased help: SHIP counselors and 1-800-MEDICARE
What is inside
Your enrollment timeline
Work out your own seven-month Initial Enrollment Period and mark the key dates.
Coverage paths explained
The general difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, and the questions to research — with no recommendation either way.
Document checklist
The cards, records and information to have ready before you enroll or compare coverage.
Who it is for
People approaching 65, people leaving employer coverage, and family members helping a parent through enrollment.
Questions families ask
Do you recommend a plan?
No. This checklist is strictly educational. We do not sell insurance, recommend plans or give quotes. A State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) counselor can give free, unbiased one-to-one help.
Are you connected to Medicare?
No. Warm Hearts Senior Care is independent and not affiliated with Medicare, CMS or any government agency. For official information use Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE.
Will the dates change?
The general structure of the enrollment periods is long-standing, but details can change. Always confirm current dates on Medicare.gov.
Educational only. Warm Hearts Senior Care is an independent resource. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) or any government agency. We do not sell insurance, recommend plans or provide quotes. For official information visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE; for free unbiased counseling contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).