- Medicare Questions Answered
Will I receive penalties if I enroll late?
Late enrollment penalties can apply if you don’t sign up for Medicare Part B or Part D when you’re first eligible and you don’t have other qualifying coverage. These penalties are often added to your monthly premium and can last as long as you have Medicare.
Key things to know
- Part B and Part D each have their own late enrollment penalty rules.
- Penalties are usually added to your monthly premium — sometimes for life.
- Creditable employer or union coverage can protect you from penalties while you delay.
Important factors to consider
- Having creditable employer coverage may allow you to delay enrollment without a penalty.
- Special Enrollment Periods exist for certain life events, like losing group coverage.
- It's worth confirming your specific situation before delaying enrollment.
Every person’s situation is different — your individual circumstances may vary. This information is educational only and is not legal, tax, or medical advice.
