Medicare Enrollment in Boise, Idaho: What Seniors Need to Know Before Turning 65

If you’re approaching age 65 and live in the Boise or Treasure Valley area, you’re likely starting to hear a lot about Medicare—and it can feel overwhelming. Understanding when you can enroll, what your coverage options are, and how to choose the right plan can help you avoid costly mistakes and feel confident about your healthcare decisions.

This guide is designed specifically for Boise seniors aging into Medicare, breaking down enrollment timelines, plan types, and key considerations in plain language.

What Is Medicare?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for:

• Adults age 65 and older

• Certain younger people with disabilities

• People with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)

Medicare has four main parts, each covering different services.

The Four Parts of Medicare

• Part A (Hospital Insurance) Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facilities, hospice, and some home health care.Most people pay no premium if they worked at least 10 years.

• Part B (Medical Insurance) Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and medical equipment.Requires a monthly premium.

• Part C (Medicare Advantage) An alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurance companies. Often includes drug coverage and extra benefits like dental or vision.

• Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage) Helps cover the cost of prescription medications.

When Can You Enroll in Medicare?

Understanding Medicare enrollment periods is one of the most important steps for Boise seniors turning 65.

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

Your Initial Enrollment Period lasts 7 months:

• Begins 3 months before your 65th birthday month

• Includes your birthday month

• Ends 3 months after

✅ Enrolling during this time helps you avoid late enrollment penalties and coverage gaps.

Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

You may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if:

• You are still working at 65

• You have health coverage through an employer (yours or your spouse’s)

Once employer coverage ends, you typically have 8 months to enroll in Part B without penalty.

Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)

October 15 – December 7 each year

During AEP, Boise Medicare beneficiaries can:

• Switch Medicare Advantage plans

• Change Part D drug plans

• Move from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare

Changes take effect January 1 of the following year.

Get Local Medicare Help in Boise & the Treasure Valley

Choosing Medicare coverage is an important decision—and having a local Boise Medicare expert on your side can make all the difference.

A licensed, independent Medicare advisor can help you compare plans available in Boise, Meridian, Eagle, Nampa, Kuna, and Caldwell, explain enrollment timelines, and make sure your doctors and prescriptions are covered.

Whether you’re turning 65 soon or reviewing your current plan, personalized guidance can help you avoid penalties and unexpected costs.

Schedule a free, no-obligation Medicare consultation today to get clear answers and confidence in your coverage.

Call 208.614.3505 or click below to schedule your free Medicare Consultation

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