The Short Answer
Medicare's enrollment windows set the rhythm of an agent's year. The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP, Oct 15–Dec 7) is the big sprint; the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP, Jan 1–Mar 31) allows one change; Initial Enrollment Periods (IEP) happen as people turn 65 year-round; and Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) open for qualifying events. Understanding them lets you build a steady, year-round pipeline instead of living or dying by AEP.
AEP: the sprint
From October 15 to December 7, anyone on Medicare can change Advantage or Part D plans for the coming year — so this is when the most reviews and switches happen. It's intense and concentrated. Agents who prepped their book and certifications early handle it far better than those scrambling.
OEP, IEP, and year-round SEPs
January–March's OEP lets current MA members make one change. Meanwhile, people turn 65 every day (IEP), and life events — moving, losing employer coverage, plan exits — open SEPs all year. Together these mean there's meaningful business outside AEP for agents who cultivate it.
Build a year-round pipeline
The agents with the steadiest income don't wait for fall. They work the Turning-65 pipeline continuously, stay available for SEP situations, and keep service and referrals flowing — see building your first book of business. That turns AEP into a peak on top of a steady base rather than the only time you earn. Our team keeps agents busy year-round — see Join Our Team.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Medicare's busiest season for agents?
The Annual Enrollment Period, October 15–December 7, when anyone on Medicare can change Advantage or Part D plans for the next year. It's the year's busiest stretch by far.
Can you sell Medicare year-round?
Yes. People turn 65 every day (Initial Enrollment), and Special Enrollment Periods open for qualifying events all year, so a well-run practice has year-round business with a fall peak.
What is T65?
T65 refers to people 'turning 65' and aging into Medicare, whose Initial Enrollment Period makes them a steady, predictable source of new clients throughout the year.
What is OEP for agents?
The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1–March 31) lets current MA members make one change — switching MA plans or returning to Original Medicare with a Part D plan.
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