Updated for plan year 2026 on 2026-07-25
What Medicare late enrollment penalties should I avoid?
The main penalties to watch are for Part B and Part D. They can last a long time, so enrollment timing and proof of creditable coverage matter.
What to check before you choose
Medicare choices depend on your dates, county, prescriptions, doctors, pharmacies, and how much risk you are comfortable carrying during the year.
- Confirm the beneficiary's Medicare effective dates, county, prescriptions, doctors, and coverage goals.
- Separate general education from plan-specific recommendations and document consent before marketing discussions.
- Check current plan-year rules, premiums, formularies, pharmacy pricing, networks, and enrollment-window eligibility.