Medicare's Annual Enrollment runs Oct 15 – Dec 7. Turning 65 soon? Your 7-month enrollment window is open now — don't leave benefits on the table.
Serving Wilmington · New Hanover County

Wilmington & New Hanover County: Are You Getting Every Medicare Benefit You've Earned?

From historic downtown Wilmington to Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Castle Hayne, coastal neighbors are reviewing their 2026 Medicare options right now. A local licensed agent will check what $0-premium plans and extras you may qualify for — free.

Right now in New Hanover County: about 213 residents turn 65 every month — 2,557 this year. If you're one of them, your enrollment window may already be open.
Turning 65 in New Hanover County — the timing that matters: your Medicare Initial Enrollment Period is a 7-month window — it opens 3 months before your 65th-birthday month and closes 3 months after it. Enrolling early in that window means coverage can start the month you turn 65; missing it can mean late-enrollment penalties that never go away. You'll be one of 2,557 New Hanover County residents making this decision this year.
Turning 65 Already on Medicare Just have questions
No cost · no obligation · a local licensed agent will reach out

The Cape Fear coast keeps drawing retirees, and the Medicare market here has grown with it. Most plans in New Hanover County are built around Novant's Wilmington-area network, but which doctors, extras and pharmacy benefits come with each plan still varies — between Monkey Junction, Ogden, downtown, and the beach towns. If you've recently relocated here, your move may open its own enrollment window, too. A licensed local agent checks it all for your exact ZIP, free.

Medicare questions in Wilmington

How much does this cost me?

Nothing. Speaking with a licensed agent about your Medicare options is completely free, with no obligation to enroll.

I'm turning 65 here in Wilmington — when can I enroll?

Your Initial Enrollment Period is a 7-month window: the 3 months before your 65th-birthday month, your birthday month, and the 3 months after. Reviewing early helps your New Hanover County coverage start on time.

I just moved to the coast — can I pick a plan now?

Moving to a new service area usually opens a Special Enrollment Period, so you may be able to choose a New Hanover County plan right away. A licensed agent can confirm your situation in one call.

Do I have to switch my current plan?

No. An agent simply reviews what's available across New Hanover County and shows you the options. Whether you change anything is entirely up to you.

Is this Medicare or a government program?

No. LeadLoom is a private service that connects you with licensed insurance agents. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.