Am I eligible for a Special Enrollment Period if I lose employer coverage?

Question

David Wynne · Accepted Answer

Yes — losing employer or union-based health coverage does indeed qualify you for a Medicare Special Enrollment Period (SEP). Specifically, if you delay enrolling in Original Medicare (Parts A and/or B) because you were covered by current employment-based group health insurance, you have an eight‑month SEP to sign up once that coverage ends or your employment ends—whichever comes first 
However, for enrolling in or changing a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan or a stand-alone Part D prescription drug plan, you have only a two‑month SEP that begins immediately after the month your employer coverage ends

Rodney Powell · Answer

Yes, if you lose employer coverage, you qualify for a Medicare Special Enrollment Period (SEP).

•  For Original Medicare (Part A and/or Part B), you have 8 months from the date your group health plan ends or you stop working — whichever comes first—to enroll without penalty. This only applies if your coverage was through active employment (not COBRA or retiree coverage).

•  For Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Part D (prescription drug coverage), the SEP is shorter: you have 2 months from the date your employer coverage ends to sign up.

Key points:

•  The 2-month SEP for Part C and Part D starts when your employer coverage ends — not when employment ends.

•  Missing this window may mean waiting until the next Annual Enrollment Period and possibly facing late enrollment penalties.

Mark Bilgere · Answer

If you are qualified for Medicare, 65 years or older with 40 qualifying quarters, yes you have a SEP when losing employer coverage. You will have 8 months from when the employer coverage ends to enroll in Medicare Part B and 2 months to enroll in Medicare Part D. Keep in mind that COBRA does not count as creditable coverage so staying on COBRA does not extend the 8 month SEP.

Answered by Mark Bilgere on September 23, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, AR, IN & LA, MN, NE & OK

Answered by Mark Bilgere Medicare Insurance Agent

Susan Winters · Answer

Yes, You have 8 months to enroll in Part B (and Part A if you haven’t) starting the month after your employment or employer coverage ends—whichever comes first. It is good to also note that COBRA or retiree coverage does NOT count as active employer coverage for delaying Part B without penalty.

If you miss the 8-month SEP, you might have to wait for the General Enrollment Period (Jan 1–Mar 31) and pay a lifetime late enrollment penalty on Part B.

Mark Mabaquiao · Answer

Yes, you have a couple Special Enrollment Periods (SEP) to consider when losing employer (ER) coverage.

The first type of SEP is called the Part B SEP (B SEP). This time period allows you to enroll in Medicare Part B without paying a late enrollment penalty. The B SEP lasts for eight months after you lose the ER coverage.

The second type of SEP allows you to enroll in a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan or a stand-alone prescription drug plan (PDP). This period lasts for 2 full months after the month your ER coverage ends.

Most folks do not want a break in benefits after they have lost their ER coverage. In this case, we can work on making sure your Part B and MA or PDP plan begins the day after your ER coverage ends.

Andrew Kramer · Answer

Yes. You have an 8 month period to apply for Medicare Part B. But you only have a 2 month period after losing employer coverage to enroll in either a Medicare Advantage plan which includes Part D coverage, or a supplement to Medicare and a stand alone Part D plan. If you have a gap for more than 63 days from your loss of employer coverage, and enrolling in either of those, you will incur the LEP, known as the Part D late enrollment penalty. I tell my clients who are planning to retire, or drop employer coverage, to apply for Medicare Part B 2 months, before to avoid the LEP.

Answered by Andrew Kramer on June 6, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL

Answered by Andrew Kramer Medicare Insurance Agent

Ann Sanfelippo · Answer

Yes — if you lose employer or union health coverage, you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). You have 8 months to enroll in Medicare Part B and 2 months to choose a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan. Make sure to keep proof of when your coverage ended to avoid late penalties.

Answered by Ann Sanfelippo on October 8, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AL, AZ & 14 other states

Answered by Ann Sanfelippo Medicare Insurance Agent

Hannah Skinner · Answer

Losing creditable employer coverage does give you a Special Election Period. You have 8 months from the day you lose coverage to enroll in Part B. You have 63 days from the day you lose coverage to enroll in a Part D or Medicare Advantage plan.

Answered by Hannah Skinner on July 14, 2025

Broker Licensed in SC, AL, AR & 44 other states

Answered by Hannah Skinner Medicare Insurance Agent

Elizabeth Henderson · Answer

Yes you are eligible for a Special Enrollment Period if you lose your employer coverage.  The Special Enrollment Period for Parts A and/or B are for 8 months and starts the month after Employment stops or coverage stops, whichever comes first.  You have 63 days from that time to enroll in either Part D or a Medicare Advantage plan with prescription drug coverage in order to avoid penalties.

**Please note that COBRA does not count as creditable coverage, as it is not considered employer coverage.  That said, there is not an SEP if you have COBRA and it ends.

Jessica Ellis · Answer

Yes you are. If you lose employer coverage you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period to sign up for Medicare without a late penalty. You usually have eight months from the time your job coverage ends to enroll in Part B. For Part D drug coverage or a Medicare Advantage plan you have only two months. It is best not to wait so you avoid any gaps in coverage.

Answered by Jessica Ellis on October 2, 2025

Broker Licensed in OK

Answered by Jessica Ellis Medicare Insurance Agent

Sergio Valenzuela · Answer

Yes, usually to enroll into Medicare you have Enrollments Periods, if for some reason you missed your Initial Enrollment Period when you turned 65 or if you delayed part B, then you have a Special Enrollment Period when you lose employer coverage, the window is 8 months to enroll into Medicare part A and/or B and 2 months for Medicare Advantage Plans.

Answered by Sergio Valenzuela on March 18, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ

Answered by Sergio Valenzuela Medicare Insurance Agent

Stephanie Yarberough · Answer

Yes, almost always that would be the case. You would have a Special Enrollment Period when you lose employer insurance that lasts for a certain amount of days depending on your specifics.

When I'm working with clients walking through that transition, we're going to do some things ahead of time so that we don't have any gaps in coverage. We're ready to go as soon as that employer insurance ends, and we're going to roll right into Medicare.

Now, Medicare plans can only start the first of a month, so you do need to be careful. If you're leaving an employer plan in the middle of a month, you're going to need to decide if your Medicare is starting the previous month or the first of the month that you're ending. Or, if you bump into the next month, you might have a two week overlap or a two week underlap of coverage if that's the case.

So I do encourage clients to try to end coverage on the end of a month, and then we just start Medicare the first of the next month, so there's no time without coverage and there's no overlaps in coverage if possible.

But yes, again, most people are going to have a Special Enrollment Period at any point in the year when they lose employer insurance. Let us know if we can talk you through any of these specifics in the future to help you understand that process.

Antonio Rodriguez · Answer

Yes — losing employer coverage usually does qualify you for a Special Enrollment Period. In most cases, you have 8 months to enroll in Medicare Part B after the employer coverage ends, and about 63 days to choose a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan.

The timing matters, so it’s important not to wait too long to avoid late penalties or gaps in coverage. If you want, I can help you walk through the next steps and make sure everything lines up correctly.

Christopher Boyd · Answer

Current Medicare rules allow a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) when someone loses creditable group coverage and is 65 or over in most states. This entitles the retiree to enroll into Parts A, B, C, and/or D. In most cases, the senior will be required to the pay the entire Part B and/or Part D monthly premiums at that time and for the rest of their retirement.

Answered by Christopher Boyd on March 4, 2025

Agent Licensed in IN, KY, MI, OH, PA & TN

Answered by Christopher Boyd Medicare Insurance Agent

Esther Miller · Answer

Yes, there are several special situations that can trigger a special election period or your initial enrollment period if you have never had Medicare before. If you suddenly lose your employer coverage you have 63 days to sign up for Medicare coverage. You would sign up for Medicare first through Social Security, and then decide if you want a Medigap Supplement + Prescription drug plan vs. a Medicare Advantage Plan. 

This is also true if you move out of your local area or your Medicare plan is discontinued. 

If plan to retire, and have not had Medicare before, then you can plan in advance and then you will have up to 6 months to sign up for a Medicare Supplement Plan or 7 months ( three months before your birthdate, the month of your birthdate ane three months after your birthdate to sign up for a Medicare Advantage Plan or Prescription Drug plan.

Lilyana Uzdenova-Gomez · Answer

Yes, involuntary loss of employer sponsored coverage usually triggers a Special Enrollment period available for 2 months after the month of loss to join a Medicare advantage plan or a part D plan. In addition to that, if you delayed part B enrollment you have an 8 months widow to enroll into part B or parts A and B, if needed, without a penalty. Keep in mind COBRA doesn’t automatically extend the SEP, and part D penalty will still apply after the 63 day gap in creditable coverage. Always consult an insurance expert if you are unsure about your options.

Answered by Lilyana Uzdenova-Gomez on March 23, 2026

Broker Licensed in FL

Answered by Lilyana Uzdenova-Gomez Medicare Insurance Agent

Brenda Trejos · Answer

Yes, most likely.  There are certain rules to follow but if you work for an Employer with more than 20 employees (Not kidding...  This is a CMS rule), then while you're at that Employer you have "credible coverage" through your work.   This means you will not face any penalty when you start Medicare after you're 65+ years old. Now, you will have to have a form filled out by your Employer confirming that you've had coverage before you apply for Medicare. (Form CMS L564) You submit this signed form with your Application for Part B of Medicare.  
In summary, when you end employment (voluntarily or not)after you're 65 and 3 months old, you can apply for Medicare through a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) and start the following month on the 1st of the month. 
I recommend reaching our with any further questions to a Licensed Broker/Agent to guide you through the process.

Derek Rogers · Answer

Yes, losing employer-sponsored health coverage qualifies you for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), allowing you to enroll in a new Marketplace plan outside the standard open enrollment period. You generally have 60 days before or after losing coverage to select a new plan

Answered by Mark Sannes on March 5, 2026

Broker Licensed in WA, AK, AZ & 11 other states

Answered by Mark Sannes Medicare Insurance Agent

Curtis Stoner · Answer

Yes you will get a special enrollment period. If it is to enroll in Part B you will get an 8 month window starting when your employer coverage ends. For Part D you will have a 63 day window to enroll. You will not want to miss these windows as it could potentially trigger penalties that will follow you as long as your on Medicare

Answered by Curtis Stoner on June 18, 2025

Broker Licensed in TN, KY & LA

Answered by Curtis Stoner Medicare Insurance Agent

Jeffrey Jon · Answer

How long do I have to enroll in Medicare after losing employer coverage?
8 months
Your Special Enrollment Period begins when you retire or lose your employer coverage, whichever happens first. You will have up to 8 months to enroll in Parts A and/or B, but only the first two months to enroll in Parts C and/or D.

Jennifer Sigman · Answer

In most cases, losing your employer health coverage would qualify you for a Special Enrollment Period with Medicare. Example of when you would qualify: If you've been covered by an active employer group health plan (either yours or your spouse's) since turning 65, and it ended within the last 8 months, you can enroll in Part B without any penalty. You will need to have a few documents which include Employer verification of coverage and your application for part-B.

Answered by Jennifer Sigman on November 24, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH, AL, IA & 12 other states

Answered by Jennifer Sigman Medicare Insurance Agent

Mitch Anderson · Answer

The short answer is "yes". Generally, when someone loses employer coverage they qualify for a Special Enrollment Period that allows them to get into a Medicare plan with no questions asked. The qualifier is that the employer coverage is "creditable". This means that the employer coverage is at least as good as Medicare's coverage. This information is provided by the group insurance provider and your human resources director should be able to answer this question for you.

Answered by Mitch Anderson on March 25, 2025

Agent Licensed in MN, IA & WI

Answered by Mitch Anderson Medicare Insurance Agent

Sean Davis · Answer

Yes, you may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) if you lose your employer health coverage. This SEP typically lasts for 8 months following the loss of your coverage, allowing you to enroll in Medicare without facing penalties. It’s important to inform Medicare of your loss of coverage to ensure a smooth enrollment process.

Answered by Linda Davies on May 22, 2025

Agent Licensed in IL

Answered by Linda Davies Medicare Insurance Agent

Alyssa Gonzales · Answer

Yes losing employer or union coverage qualifies you for a Special Enrollment Period. You generally have 8 months to enroll in Medicare Part B and 63 days to enroll in a Part D or Medicare Advantage plan without penalty. Don't wait. Processing times can very, and you don't want to be left holding a bag full of penalties!

Answered by Alyssa Gonzales on August 9, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, CO, IA & 9 other states

Answered by Alyssa Gonzales Medicare Insurance Agent

Marsha Reiniers · Answer

Yes, losing employer group coverage will entitle you to a Special Enrolment period. You would need to enroll in Part B, and Part A if you have not done that yet. This SEP gives you an 8 month window to enroll in Medicare A and B. My recommendation is to enroll as soon as you know your ending date for your group coverage so there is no gap in your health insurance. That way you have time to evaluate your “gap” coverage and choose a plan.

Answered by Marsha Reiniers on July 1, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL, GA, MI & NC, PA, SC & VA

Answered by Marsha Reiniers Medicare Insurance Agent

Melissa Foster · Answer

Yes—if your coverage is ending due to retirement, job loss, or your employer dropping coverage, you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. 

During this time, you can enroll in Medicare Part A, Part B, or both, depending on your situation. You’ll also have the opportunity to choose your coverage moving forward—either a Medicare Supplement with a Part D prescription drug plan or a Medicare Advantage (MAPD) plan.

Jesse Martinez · Answer

Yes, you are available for a SEP with loss of Credible coverage. If you don’t currently have part B Medicare you typically have 8 months to get signed up without penalty. You also only have 63 days to get enrolled in a Part D (prescription drug plan) or Medicare advantage plan before penalty’s can accrue.

Answered by Jesse Martinez on June 29, 2025

Agent Licensed in TX

Answered by Jesse Martinez Medicare Insurance Agent

Voss Speros · Answer

Voss Speros, Greek god of Medicare, talking about Medicare. So the question is, am I eligible for a special enrollment period if I lose my employer coverage? If you're over 65 and you've opted not to go on Medicare and that coverage drops, yes, you can go on. You get a special election period to go on Medicare due to loss of coverage. If you are retiring and you're going on Part B for the first time, your retirement SEP or loss of coverage is if you're dropping the plan. So yes, if you have an employer plan and you're dropping it, yes. If you move out of your plan area and you're on an Advantage plan, you get an SEP to pick a new plan. If your Advantage plan drops entirely, you can go on a supplement plan. You get an SEP for loss of coverage. So yes, there is a loss of coverage SEP, a special election period to help you pick plans. Give us a call if you have any questions. We'll be more than happy to help.

Lea Ayres · Answer

Yes, If you lose your job-based health coverage, you have an 8-month Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to sign up for Medicare. This period starts the month after your employment or employer-sponsored health insurance ends, whichever comes first.

Answered by Lea Ayres on March 12, 2025

Broker Licensed in PA, CT, MD & 8 other states

Answered by Lea Ayres Medicare Insurance Agent

Steve Houchens · Answer

Yes, if you lose employer-sponsored health coverage, you qualify for an 8-month Medicare Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to enroll in Medicare Part A and/or Part B, or to switch to a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan.

Answered by Steve Houchens on April 2, 2025

Agent Licensed in KY & TN

Answered by Steve Houchens Medicare Insurance Agent

Gary Church · Answer

Here's a question: Am I eligible for a Special Enrollment Period if I lose my employer's coverage?

Well, the obvious answer is yes. You are eligible for Special Enrollment into Medicare. It's understanding what your termination was, but yes, you are definitely qualified for an SEP for that event.

You have six months from departure of that employer to sign up for a Medicare plan. Whenever in doubt, what I always recommend is sit down with a licensed agent or broker who can review your options and help you with the paperwork that you need to be able to submit, because you have to show that you did have creditable coverage through your employer. And hopefully the company you worked for had 20 or more employees. If they did not and you didn't sign up, then you're going to be assessed a penalty.

Hopefully that answers your question.

Sandra Teel · Answer

Yes.  If you are losing your employers insurance, whether you are retiring or losing your coverage for other reasons, it opens up a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) of time for you to get onto Medicare.
Please note that COBRA coverage is not considered credible coverage by Medicare, so you will still need to apply for Medicare if you are offered Cobra. 

Once your employer coverage ends, or your COBRA coverage begins there is a limited time you have to get your Medicare coverage before you will be penalized.  

Please reach out to a professional Medicare Broker so they can help navigate you through the process.

Jason Hark, MBA, CMIP · Answer

Yep, if you lose your employer health coverage, you get what's called a Special Enrollment Period to sign up for Medicare without any penalties. That period usually lasts about eight months, startin’ the month after your coverage ends, so you’ve got plenty of time to get on board with Part A and Part B. It’s real important to sign up on time so you don’t end up with any gaps in coverage or extra fees later on.

Answered by Jason Hark, MBA, CMIP on June 4, 2025

Broker Licensed in IL, AL, AR & 17 other states

Answered by Jason Hark, MBA, CMIP Medicare Insurance Agent

Frank Buonomo · Answer

Yes, you are in a Special Enrollment Period if you lose employer coverage. You must enroll in Medicare withing 60 days of losing your coverage. You may also be eligible to a Special Election Period dure to other specific life events.

Answered by Frank Buonomo on March 25, 2025

Agent Licensed in NV, CA, ID & IL, NM, OR & TX

Answered by Frank Buonomo Medicare Insurance Agent

Comfort Olude · Answer

Yes, you are eligible for a Special Enrollment Period if you lose 
employer-sponsored health coverage. 
You are eligible for an 8-month Special Enrollment Period to enroll in Medicare Part B, or to make changes to your Medicare Advantage or Part D plan.

Lea Vollmer · Answer

Yes, you have 8 months to enroll in Part B and/or A, starting the month your coverage ends or the month your employment ends- whichever happens first.

Linda Davies · Answer

Yes, you may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) if you lose your employer health coverage. This SEP typically lasts for 8 months following the loss of your coverage, allowing you to enroll in Medicare without facing penalties. It’s important to inform Medicare of your loss of coverage to ensure a smooth enrollment process.

Answered by Linda Davies on May 22, 2025

Agent Licensed in IL

Steve and Sue Brauer · Answer

So the question is, are you eligible for a special enrollment period if you lose employer coverage? The answer to that is yes. But here's the thing, and it's very, very strange the way they work this. When you lose your employer coverage, you have up to six months to get into Medicare, to sign up for Medicare. But here's the catch. You only have 60 days to sign up for the drug coverage part of Medicare. Why is it different? Who knows? Nobody knows. What I tell people is you try to coordinate when you leave your employer or lose your coverage, try to make it seamless. Figure out when the last day that you're going to lose coverage is and coordinate it to where your Medicare coverage picks it up the day after you lose coverage. So that’s seamless, you have no lapse in coverage.

Joseph Bachmeier · Answer

You do fall into a Special Enrollment period. You will have 60-days to choose Original Medicare with a Part D drug plan or enroll into a Medicare Advantage plan.

Dutch VanHoesen · Answer

Yes there is an 8-month period between losing your employer coverage to get into a Medicare Advantage plan or prescription drug plan. Cobra coverage does not count as it is not creditable coverage according to Medicare.

Answered by Dutch VanHoesen on March 27, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL

Answered by Dutch VanHoesen Medicare Insurance Agent

Kelly Hurt · Answer

Yes you are eligible. Make sure you submit documents to the social security office that shoes you still had employer coverage. As long as you do that within 63 days of losing your employer coverage you should not be penalized.

Answered by Kelly Hurt on July 13, 2026

Agent Licensed in IL, AZ, CO & 10 other states

Answered by Kelly Hurt Medicare Insurance Agent

Nolan Popel · Answer

Yes absolutely you would qualify for a special election period that would occur two months before, the month of and 63 days after the employer coverage has ended.

William Lawler · Answer

Yes. When you lose health coverage through your employer, you have 60 days to enroll in Medicare Part B and choose either a Medicare Advantage plan or a Medigap plan.

Mark Maliwauki · Answer

Yes. Losing employer coverage qualifies as a special enrollment period. You have 63 days to get your new coverage in place.

Joel Gregory Craven · Answer

Yes if you lose credible coverage through an employer or group insurance you will have a 63 day window to enroll in a plan with no medical questions. You can purchase a Medicare Supplement and enroll in a part D drug plan or you can enroll in a Medicare advantage plan. Give our agency a call for help

Answered by Joel Gregory Craven on August 5, 2025

Broker Licensed in MS, AL, AZ & 5 other states

Answered by Joel Gregory Craven Medicare Insurance Agent

Cleo Martin · Answer

Yes that constitutes a special enrollment period for you. You need to enroll in Medicare within 63 days. You have a choice of doing regular Medicare and get a supplement and a drug card. There is a guaranteed issue. Or you can enroll on a Medicare Advantage. You should choose the best one for you based on your health and your financial situation.

Answered by Cleo Martin on August 8, 2025

Agent Licensed in SC, FL, GA, MI & NC

Answered by Cleo Martin Medicare Insurance Agent

Pamela Camey · Answer

If you lose creditable employer or union healthcare coverage, you will qualify for a special enrollment period (SEP) to enroll in Medicare Parts, A, B, C, or D, which allows you to join or switch plans outside regular enrollment periods

Answered by Pamela Camey on March 28, 2025

Broker Licensed in IL, FL, IA & 6 other states

Answered by Pamela Camey Medicare Insurance Agent

LeShawn Fernandez · Answer

Absoutely if you're 65 and older and qualify for Medicare once you lose medical coverage while you're working or retirred you qualifiy for an 8mo enrollment period to lockin your part A and part B Original Medicare.  However you can add a Medicare Supplement and PDP plan or a MAPD which is a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan. I hope my answer helps you and if you need any further help you can contact me.
Thank you!

Misty Bolt · Answer

Hi, Medicare Minutes are back with Medicare Misty. Good question we got today from a client: Am I eligible for a special enrollment period if I lose employer coverage? Great news! You are eligible for a special enrollment period if you lose your employer coverage. This means you can enroll in Medicare Part A and B and also get an Advantage plan.

Sharon Bohlen · Answer

Yes. If you work past age 65, when you do retire or lose employer coverage for any reason, you have a personal open enrollment period where you can apply for a Medicare plan. You first need to apply for Part A and B, and once that is active you are eligible for a Medicare Supplement or a Medicare Advantage plan.

Answered by Sharon Bohlen on August 21, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH, FL, IN & KY

Answered by Sharon Bohlen Medicare Insurance Agent

Mark Sannes · Answer

Yes, losing employer-sponsored health coverage qualifies you for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), allowing you to enroll in a new Marketplace plan outside the standard open enrollment period. You generally have 60 days before or after losing coverage to select a new plan

Answered by Mark Sannes on March 5, 2026

Broker Licensed in WA, AK, AZ & 11 other states

William Kravit · Answer

Generally yes. That is considered a life-changing event which creates an opportunity to enroll in Medicare without any late enrollment penalties, and cascading from Medicare enrollment is the guaranteed enrollment into any Medicare plan such as a supplement or Advantage plan.

Answered by William Kravit on March 25, 2025

Agent Licensed in WI, AZ, CO & 9 other states

Answered by William Kravit Medicare Insurance Agent

Michael Pyers · Answer

Yes. As long as you had creditable coverage that ended.  You have 60 days to elect Medicare.  At which time you could enroll in an Advantage Plan, Medigap plan and Part D Plan.

Nina Besant · Answer

Yes you are eligible for a Special Enrollment Period when you lose your employer coverage! You would need your employer to complete the L564 form and then you'd submit that along with your medicare application to Social Security to start Medicare.

Answered by Nina Besant on May 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in CO, AZ, FL & 7 other states

Answered by Nina Besant Medicare Insurance Agent

Maria Pantall · Answer

Yes, you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. This gives you 8 months to enroll in Medicare Part A and B without a late penalty.

Timothy Brown · Answer

Yes but enrollment in Medicare and plans are time specific. Here what you need to know to avoid late enrollment penalties:

1) After losing employer coverage, you only have 63 days to enroll in either stand alone Medicare Part D a Medicare Advantage plan that includes prescription drug coverage. It’s important to apply/signup for Medicare Part & Part B as soon as possible.

Jim Willis · Answer

Yes you are 
Loss of employer coverage is one of the standard SEP‘s. You have to get signed up rather quickly, preferably within 30 days after losing your employer coverage.

Andrew Dooly · Answer

Yes. If you lose employer health coverage, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period that allows you to enroll in Medicare outside of the normal enrollment windows.

The timing rules can vary depending on your situation and the type of coverage you had through your employer, so it’s usually a good idea to review your options with a Medicare agent to make sure you enroll at the right time and avoid penalties or gaps in coverage.

Justin Lucas · Answer

Yes you have a Special Enrollment Period if you lose employer coverage. In the state of Indiana you have to find out if it is involuntary or voluntary. That can play a role in if you chose a Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage.

Answered by Justin Lucas on May 8, 2025

Broker Licensed in IN, FL, IA & 11 other states

Answered by Justin Lucas Medicare Insurance Agent

Annelies Van Schie · Answer

Yes. Losing employers insurance qualifies as a Special Enrollment Period, which means you can apply for Medicare Part A & B, or for Part B only after your initial enrollment period at age 65. 

Most people also would not have a late enrollment penalty fee due to having employer coverage after 65 till getting on full Medicare.

Melanie Blackston · Answer

Yes, Loss of your employer health insurance is considered a qualifying life event that will trigger a Special Enrollment Period, allowing you to enroll in a new health insurance plan outside of the regular Open Enrollment Period.

Answered by Melanie Blackston on May 28, 2025

Broker Licensed in SC, GA & NC

Answered by Melanie Blackston Medicare Insurance Agent

Gregg Matheny · Answer

Yes that’s a great example of a “special election period”. Most brokers will refer to this as an LEC. Although Medicare does give you a few months to get onto a new plan, I think it’s best to not go “uncovered” for any period of time. If you coordinate with the broker, they can usually make this process very seamless.

Answered by Gregg Matheny on March 26, 2025

Agent Licensed in AZ & UT

Answered by Gregg Matheny Medicare Insurance Agent

Amy Jones · Answer

Yes. You have 2 months after losing employer coverage to enroll into a Medicare Advantage plan using the SEP for loss of creditable coverage.

Amy Putrino · Answer

Most likely, yes. If your employer coverage was creditable and provided prescribtion drug coverage. You may have to apply for Medicare Part B, and have to work with a set timeline to apply for a Medicare plan.

Answered by Amy Putrino on June 19, 2025

Agent Licensed in RI, AZ, CT & 12 other states

Answered by Amy Putrino Medicare Insurance Agent

Andrew Zurbuch, MBA · Answer

Medicare will determine whether you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. There are some circumstances that Medicare will allow you to be able to sign up during a Special Enrollment Period if you miss an enrollment period because of a certain exceptional situation like a Group health insurance error. For that call 1800Medicare to discuss and get a determination. If you have to pay for Original Medicare Part A however, don't sign up for it and or don't sign up for Part B, during your Initial Enrollment Period, and you don't qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, then you sign up during your General Enrollment Period that is each year. Please contact a Broker for assistance.

Source: Medicare & You 2024.

Jeff Linabary · Answer

Yes, you will become eligible for a SEP - Special Enrollment Period, you will need to get onto Medicare within 63 days and choose a Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement Plan with a PDP.

Sean Krause · Answer

You would be eligible for a special election period if you lost employer coverage, changed locations of residence or other changes in your life occurred. You may also be eligible if disasters prevented you from making changes in an eligible enrollment period.

Answered by Sean Krause on April 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in TN

Answered by Sean Krause Medicare Insurance Agent

Chris Vari · Answer

Yes you are eligible for a special enrollment period if you lose your employer coverage. You have a 63 day grace period after you you lose your coverage. We assist people to avoid a month gap in coverage.

Answered by Chris Vari on March 2, 2026

Agent Licensed in PA

Answered by Chris Vari Medicare Insurance Agent

Tiffany Moore · Answer

If you are leaving employment you will be eligible for a special enrollment period. You will need to enroll no later than 60 days after your employer coverage ends if it was creditable coverage.

Steven Litzsinger · Answer

Yes. 

If you lose health coverage through your employer and you are eligible for Medicare,  it warrants a Special Enrollment Period(SEP) and you can elect to enroll in your Medicare benefits.

 If you have questions regarding SEPs, you can contact your Licensed Medicare Agent for answers and support, or visit the Medicare website for answers related to Enrollment and Special Enrollment Periods. 

Website:
www.medicare.gov

Jake Purvis · Answer

Yes, in most cases losing employer health coverage gives you a Special Enrollment Period. This allows you to enroll in Medicare or change your coverage outside of normal enrollment times. It is important to act quickly so you do not have gaps in coverage or late penalties, and a Medicare agent can help make sure everything is done correctly.

Answered by Jake Purvis on February 9, 2026

Broker Licensed in FL, GA & TX

Answered by Jake Purvis Medicare Insurance Agent

Marcie Barnes · Answer

Yes you will be eligible for loss of credible coverage special enrollment period.  You have 60 days from the date of loss to enroll.

Anthony Albano · Answer

Yes. Absolutely. You have a 60 day window of opportunity from the day you loose coverage. It can take longer that that to sign up for Medicare Part B, assuming you only have Part A. You MUST get that done early. There are specific forms needed & a specific way to go about it. Call me anytime and I will send the forms and inform you of the entire process.

Answered by Anthony Albano on February 9, 2026

Agent Licensed in FL

Answered by Anthony Albano Medicare Insurance Agent

Charise Karjala · Answer

Yes absolutely. There's no need to use COBRA. You can activate your part B premiums if you are over 65 and then be in a plan very quickly. Please don't overspend on COBRA, except under certain circumstances.

Answered by Charise Karjala on March 31, 2025

Broker Licensed in CA, AZ, CO, PA & WA

Answered by Charise Karjala Medicare Insurance Agent

Tonya Mowan · Answer

Yes, If you lose your job health insurance you are eligible for a SEP (Special Enrollment Period). There are things to think about to make sure you are eligible: date of last day of work, age, Medicare eligible, and do you have Part A and Part B? 

It is best to talk to a licensed agent to assist in fully understanding what you need to do and your available options.

Jim Tretola · Answer

Yes you are. Make sure you get on a new plan within 60 days of leaving your Plan. Remember, you will have Guaranteed Acceptance on a Medigap Plan…. with no medical underwriting.

Mike Henry · Answer

Yes you have a 60
Day window. Either Medicare Part A and B. Along with a Medicare supplement. Also a Part D for your medication. Or a Medicare advantage as long as your dr and hospital is on it

Natalee Nimmo · Answer

Yes you are, from the time your coverage ends. However, you only have 63 days to sign up. Contact a Broker in your area for assistance.

Lyle Affleck · Answer

The short answer to your question is "Yes!" You will have 3 months from your loss of coverage to get into a Medicare plan without any penalties. It is best to be proactive and have your plan set up so there is no break in coverage. If you know the date your retirement will start, reach out to a Medicare expert to formulate a plan.

Bill Wheeler · Answer

Yes, as a senior, you are eligible for a Medicare Special Enrollment Period (SEP) if you lose your employer-sponsored health coverage. This is a standard provision for people who delayed enrolling in Medicare because they had credible coverage through their job or a spouse's job.

Ron Cronwell · Answer

Usually yes. Your have roughly 63 days from the last day of coverage under an employer plan to utilize a special enrollment option. But to make the change, you must have activated both part A and Part B.

Dawn Young · Answer

Hi!  Yes you definitely are. You have 60 days from the time you lost coverage to find a new Medicare plan. 

Hope this helps. Call if you need more information. 

Dawn Young
HealthMarkets Insurance Agency

Mark Boone · Answer

yes if you lose your employer coverage you are eligible for a special enrollment period. You have a 60 day window in which to apply once you lose your coverage

Deborah Webster · Answer

Yes, there are special enrollment periods created for someone who may have continued working past age 65 and is now losing their employer-sponsored benefits.

Adam Ernst · Answer

Yes you sure are. You will have 63 days to set up your Medicare Part B that you have deferred. You can enroll into Medicare without any underwriting since you are on this enrollment period.

Sarah Murphy · Answer

Short answer yes.  Losing your health insurance due to the lost of employer coverage deems and as a qualifying life event and would make you eligible for Special Enrollment. You have a 60 day window to enroll in a new plan. In some cases proof of loss will need to be submitted.

Please reach out to your agent to help you through this process.

Kelsey Hentzen · Answer

Yes, you are eligible for a special enrollment period if you are on Medicare and lost employer coverage. Be sure to keep any documentation of prior coverage to avoid penalties.

Thomas Ashton · Answer

If you loose employer coverage, yo are eligible for a Special Election Period. You have a 2 month window to sign up.

Heidi Wotton · Answer

Yes. Losing employer coverage usually qualifies you for a Special Enrollment Period, allowing you to enroll in Medicare without penalties.

Daniel Young · Answer

if you lose your employer's health coverage it does open up a SEP so
you can enroll in a Medicare plan at that time.

Jennifer Stark · Answer

Yes you are. It’s loss of group coverage .
It’s a special enrollment period for people who are retiring and losing group coverage.

Kathy Olejniczak · Answer

Yes- you have special enrollment and the most important part is to get your A and B.
It's important to note that if you are over 65 you will need  a form from your employer that confirms you had coverage from age 65.
An experienced agent can guide you through the process!!!

Fred Manas · Answer

You qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you've had certain life events:
losing health coverage, 
moving, 
getting married, 
having a baby, 
adopting a child, 
if your household income is below a certain amount.

Gary Henderson · Answer

Yes, you have to enroll within 63 days of losing coverage to qualify 
If you missed that 63-day. You will not be able to sign up for Medicare until the next January of the next year

John Motsinger · Answer

Yes, loss of creditable health insurance typically gives you the ability to enroll into medicare or a medicare plan

John L Herman Jr · Answer

YES... and the choices you make next will determine the right Health Care for your future. A SEP allows you to change directions even though you are outside of the Annual Election Period... and SEP's come from a variety of life changes that open up opportunities... so .... consult an Independent Broker who specializes in MEDICARE.

Rachel Gauthier · Answer

Yes, there is a Special Enrollment Period for loss of credible coverage from your employer.  There are a few different timelines available to you depending on some individual considerations.  To understand how this pertains to you as an individual, I would recommend you sit down with a licensed insurance agent that specializes in Medicare and all the ways to receive your benefits in your county of residence.

Mark Enright · Answer

A short answer is yes, you do qualify for a special enrollment period if lose your employer coverage. Of course, you also need to meet the other qualifications for Medicare, but you can call your Medicare agent to review any questions you may have.

Larry Dalton · Answer

Yes, an agent should always look into areas where you may qualify for special enrollment periods (SEP), which are given throughout the year and taken away. SEP varies from state to state and from circumstance to circumstance.  Again, a trustworthy agent can explain this in detail.

Gretchen Morris · Answer

Yes if you lose coverage you can enroll after the age of 65. This can be due to retiring for example.

Robert Jones · Answer

Yes, you would qualify for a special enrollment period due to loss of employer group coverage. Please notify me if you have any further questions or call me at 860–529–3788.

Diane Walker · Answer

Yes.  You are given 63 days to find credible coverage to replace what you had before you are penalized for your Part B coverage.

Vachik Chakhbazian · Answer

Yes, you are generally eligible for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) if you lose your employer-sponsored health insurance coverage.

Gary Haft · Answer

Yes.  As long as it is an involuntary termination and you are not doing the termination as voluntary.

Claudia Englert · Answer

Yes. You are entitled to a Special Election Period if and when you lose your employer insurance coverage.

Gregory Brown · Answer

Yes this allows you to enroll in Medicare such as part B Part C  or Part D Prescription drug plan without penalty.

Karen Boudreaux · Answer

Yes your entitled to special election 
Period if you move, lose your employer coverage.
Weather disaster,, etc.

Steven Bleicher · Answer

Yes. Losing a job occurs at any time of the year. Therefore, you can acquire another healthcare plan depending on your age. If you are too young to enroll with Medicare, you can apply to the Affordable Care Act. Often times, you can qualify for an ACA subsidy when you have submitted your financial picture. Then when you find a new job, the new employer will include their medical plan once you have worked there for a minimum of 3 to 6 months.

Morris Johnson · Answer

Yes you are! You have a 63 days if you have Medicare part B. Three months if you need to enroll in Medicare part B .

Carol Thompson · Answer

Yes - usually lost of employer coverage is a SEP options, however I always check thoroughly with each carrier.

Carol Conner · Answer

Yes, if you lose  coverage due to retirement you are eligible for a SEP Special  Enrollment Period.

Jennise Housel · Answer

Yes — losing employer coverage qualifies you for a Special Enrollment Period, giving you 60 days to sign up for a Marketplace plan. Let me know if you have any questions, happy to help!

Lynn C Shurtleff · Answer

Yes, is the short answer.   There are some variables though so it does depend on the situation, but yes you will have a SEP for losing employer coverage.

Ashley King · Answer

Yes, losing employer coverage can make you eligible for a special enrollment period. I can help navigate timing, explain options and avoid penalties.

Anel Perez · Answer

Yes your are! You only have a two month period to enroll into a Medicare part C part D, prescription drug plan.

Travis Harmon · Answer

Yes, That would be a qualifying life event that would allow you a special enrollment period. Touch base with a broker and explore your options.

Mike Alexander · Answer

Yes you are able to get. An Sep, but you should enroll within s 63 days of your coverage termination

Kris Moen · Answer

Medicare gives you a grace period when you lose work coverage—but the clock starts ticking right away, even if you think you’re covered under COBRA.

Jennifer Kalbach · Answer

The short answer is yes but there are other factors that may affect your enrollment.  Contact a Medical Insurance Plan agent to get a quote on this.

Sandy Swink · Answer

Yes you are eligible for a special enrollment period. I have helped many seniors in this position. Please feel free to give me a call.

Eizel Mere · Answer

Yes. You have a specific ammount of time to avoid penalties. Important to act quickly. Give me a call to set an appointment and I will assist you.

Pat Papson · Answer

Good morning. There are various options for Special Elections.

Loss of Employer Coverage is definitely one. There are certain limits, so please contact your Agent to find the plan that works best for you.

Thank you

Samantha Jones · Answer

Yes it it a special enrollment period .LCC or LEC...............................................................,.

Edward MacConnell · Answer

This answer is provided in a video format. Watch the agent's video response here: https://medicareagentshub.com/questions/am-i-eligible-for-a-special-enrollment-period-if-i-lose-employer-coverage#edward-macconnell