When can I first apply for a Medicare plan?

The time when you can first apply for a Medicare plan is called the Initial Coverage Election Period (ICEP).

• If you’re turning 65 years old: You can apply when you first become eligible for Medicare: from 3 months before the month you turn age 65 until 3 months after the month you turn age 65.
• For example: If your 65th birthday is June 15th, 2012, you can apply for Medicare any time between March and September 2012.
   

• If you get Medicare due to a disability: You can apply from 3 months before until 3 months after your 25th month of cash disability payments.
• For example: If you have been receiving cash disability payments since March 2011, you can apply for Medicare any time between December 2012 and July 2013.