What can you do during Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period?
Understand October 15–December 7, the coverage changes available, and what to review before switching.
Medicare’s fall Annual Enrollment Period, also called Medicare Open Enrollment, runs from October 15 through December 7. It is a chance to review Medicare Advantage and prescription drug coverage for the coming year.
What changes can you make?
Depending on your current coverage, you can:
- Move from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan.
- Leave Medicare Advantage and return to Original Medicare.
- Change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another.
- Join, change, or drop a standalone Part D prescription drug plan.
Changes made during this period generally take effect January 1. Your enrollment request must reach the plan by December 7.
What should you review?
Start with the Annual Notice of Change from your current plan. Then check your doctors, hospitals, medicines, pharmacy, expected costs, and coverage rules. A familiar plan name does not mean every detail stays the same next year.
Compare the monthly premium with deductibles, copays, coinsurance, and applicable out-of-pocket limits. Think about the services you actually use and the places you receive care.
How does Medigap fit in?
The fall enrollment period is not an annual guarantee that you can buy any Medicare Supplement policy without health questions. Medigap has its own enrollment rights. Federal protections, your state’s rules, and your personal circumstances determine whether underwriting may apply.
If you are considering a return to Original Medicare, check your Medigap options and prescription coverage before ending your current plan.
Do you have to change your plan?
You do not need to change simply because the enrollment period is open. A review can help you decide whether your current coverage still fits. If a plan is ending or you receive a notice requiring action, address that notice promptly.
Prepare for a personal appointment
Bring your current plan information, change notices, medication list, preferred pharmacy, and doctor list. Write down anything that has changed in your health needs or budget. Jesse Young can help you organize the questions to ask and review available coverage choices.