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Is Enrollment in Medicare Part D Mandatory?

The Part D program was created by the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003 (MMA). For most beneficiaries, Part D drug coverage is an optional benefit.

  1. Enrollment

    • Everyone with Medicare is eligible for Part D prescription drug coverage. Beneficiaries can enroll during the first six months of Medicare eligibility and each year from November 15 to December 31.

    Late Enrollment

    • For most Medicare beneficiaries, it is a good idea to enroll in a Part D plan during the initial six-month enrollment period. There is often a late enrollment penalty if Part D plan enrollment is delayed.

    Automatic Enrollment

    • Medicare beneficiaries who also receive full Medicaid benefits (dual eligibles) and those who get help from Medicaid to pay Medicare premiums are automatically enrolled in a prescription drug plan. The Part D plan replaces Medicaid drug coverage, so there is no premium.

    Premiums

    • While some Part D plans are offered at no cost, most require paying monthly premiums if you are not dual eligible. For the most part, plans with more robust benefits charge higher premiums.

    Switching Plans

    • Dual eligible Medicare beneficiaries who are automatically enrolled in a Part D plan can change plans at any time. Most beneficiaries, however, are limited to changing plans during the general enrollment period from November 15 to December 31 each year.

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