When Is Medicare Open Enrollment?
When Is Medicare Open Enrollment? The annual window runs from October 15 to December 7. During this period, you can review your coverage and make changes that start on January 1. Even if you’re happy with your plan, it’s smart to check for premium changes, new copays, network updates, and prescription drug formulary shifts. Our licensed team compares your options—side by side—so you keep your doctors, cover your meds, and avoid surprises next year.
Compare Medicare Plans for the Coming Year
See current Medicare Advantage and Supplement options in your area.
What You Can Change Between October 15 and December 7
- Switch to Medicare Advantage (Part C) from Original Medicare (Parts A & B) or move back to Original Medicare from an Advantage plan. Learn more: Medicare Part C.
- Change your Part D prescription drug plan to improve drug coverage or lower costs. See Part D basics.
- Review Medigap options if you’re on Original Medicare. (Medical underwriting may apply outside of certain state or special eligibility rules.) Compare popular plans here: Medicare Supplement Plan G vs Plan N.
Key Dates & Related Windows
- Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): Oct 15 – Dec 7. Changes start Jan 1.
- Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (MA OEP): Jan 1 – Mar 31. If you’re in an Advantage plan on Jan 1, you can switch to a different Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare (and add a Part D) once during this window.
- Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs): Triggered by certain events (e.g., moving, losing employer coverage). If you’re still working, see: How to Get Medicare While Working.
Smart Prep Checklist (What to Gather Before You Compare)
- Prescription list: Drug names, dosages, and preferred pharmacies.
- Doctors & hospitals: Providers you want to keep.
- Expected care: Any planned procedures or therapies.
- Travel patterns: Time spent in other states (network considerations).
- Budget: Premium comfort level and typical monthly medical spend.
Medicare Advantage vs. Original Medicare (Quick Overview)
Medicare Advantage (Part C): Bundles hospital, medical, and often drug coverage. Premiums can be lower, with caps on annual out-of-pocket costs, but you must follow plan networks and rules. Learn more: Medicare Part C.
Original Medicare + Medigap + Part D: Maximum flexibility with any provider that accepts Medicare, plus a Medigap plan to help with costs and a standalone Part D plan for prescriptions. Start by comparing: Plan G vs Plan N and Part D.
Why Annual Reviews Matter (Even If You’re Happy)
- Formularies change: Your drugs may shift tiers or require prior authorization next year.
- Networks move: Doctors and hospitals join or leave plans.
- Costs adjust: Premiums, deductibles, copays, and MOOPs (maximum out-of-pocket) can change.
- New plans enter: Fresh choices can deliver better value for your profile.
How We Help During Open Enrollment
We’re independent and compare multiple carriers. You’ll get a clear, written summary of:
- Your current plan vs. top alternatives (costs, networks, and drug coverage).
- Estimated annual spend based on your prescriptions and typical care usage.
- Step-by-step change support to make sure your new coverage starts on time Jan 1.
Estimate Guaranteed Retirement Income
Project income you can’t outlive—useful for planning Medicare premiums and healthcare costs.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Auto-renewing without review: Costs and coverage change annually.
- Choosing on premium alone: Low premiums can hide higher copays or tighter networks.
- Ignoring the drug list: Tier changes can significantly affect your monthly costs.
- Missing deadlines: Most changes must be submitted by Dec 7 for Jan 1 start.
Talk With a Medicare Specialist
Other Medicare Pages
FAQs: Medicare Open Enrollment
When is Medicare Open Enrollment?
Each year from October 15 through December 7, beneficiaries can review or change their plans. Updates take effect January 1.
Can I change from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare?
Yes, you can switch back during Open Enrollment and also add a Part D plan if you return to Original Medicare.
Do I need to re-enroll in my current plan every year?
No, your coverage automatically renews, but you should review any changes in costs, benefits, or networks each year.
Can I change my Part D prescription drug plan?
Yes. You can switch to a new drug plan or drop coverage if your medication needs have changed.
When do my new plan changes take effect?
All changes made during Open Enrollment become effective on January 1 of the following year.
Where can I get help comparing plans?
Diversified Insurance Brokers provides free Medicare plan reviews to ensure your coverage fits your current needs.
