Blog - Annual Enrollment Period

Why This Period Matters

Medicare plans can change annually. The premiums, deductibles, co-pays, and provider networks associated with your current plan may shift, and the list of prescription drugs covered (the formulary) might also change. Furthermore, your own health circumstances—such as a new diagnosis, a new medication, or a change in your preferred doctor—can significantly impact which plan is best for you. AEP is your annual opportunity to ensure your plan is still the right "fit."

What You Can Do During AEP

Depending on your current coverage, you can use this window to:

Switch between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage: You can move from Original Medicare (Parts A & B) to a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C), or vice-versa.

Change Medicare Advantage Plans: If you are already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can switch to a different one.

Adjust Prescription Drug Coverage: You can join, switch, or drop a standalone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan.

Keep Your Current Plan: If you are satisfied with your existing coverage and it continues to be offered, you are not required to take any action; your plan will automatically renew on January 1.

Key Dates to Remember

October 1: New plan information for the upcoming year becomes available. It is recommended to review your plan’s "Annual Notice of Change" (ANOC) if you received one.

October 15: The Annual Enrollment Period officially begins.

December 7: The final day to submit changes. To ensure your request is processed, your enrollment form must be received by the plan by this date.

January 1: All changes made during AEP go into effect.

For unbiased assistance, you can compare plans at Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE.