When do Medicare Part B late enrollment penalties apply?

• A. If you enroll late during a general enrollment period.
• B. If you enroll during the special enrollment period.
• C. If you go without Part B when eligible and do not qualify for a special enrollment period.
• D. If you enroll in Part B during the initial enrollment period.

Answer: (C)

Part B late enrollment penalties apply only when you were eligible for Part B but did not enroll and you do not qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. In that scenario, your monthly Part B premium increases by 10% for each 12-month period you could have had Part B but didn’t sign up, and that higher premium lasts for as long as you have Part B. You avoid the penalty if you enroll during a Special Enrollment Period or if you have credible Part B coverage from another source (such as a current employer plan). Enrolling during the Initial Enrollment Period is timely and would not incur a penalty.