When the GEP ends with or before the end of an individual's IEP, the GEP has no effect on either the individual's enrollment or date of coverage. That is, the enrollment is based on the IEP.

If the IEP extends into, but ends prior to, the end of the GEP, the individual has the benefit of the additional time remaining in the current GEP in which to enroll, with a effective date for SMI being the first of the month after the month of enrollment.

REMINDER: Months that elapse between the end of the IEP and the end of the GEP may count against the individual for premium penalty purposes if the period of SMI coverage terminates and the individual subsequently re-enrolls. See HI 01001.010 for information on premium surcharges for late enrollment or re-enrollment.