Medicare Open Enrollment Period
Plain English
Medicare Open Enrollment runs October 15 to December 7 each year. It's when you can switch Medicare Advantage or Part D drug plans, or move between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, with changes starting January 1. People already in Medicare Advantage get another chance to switch from January 1 to March 31.
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On this page
Definition
The Medicare Open Enrollment Period runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. During it, people with Medicare can join, drop or switch Medicare Advantage plans and Part D drug plans, and switch between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, with changes taking effect January 1. It's separate from the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period, January 1 to March 31.
Why It Matters
Plans change their premiums, networks and drug lists each year. Open Enrollment is when you can act on those changes, so reviewing your plan each fall can save money or keep your doctors and drugs covered.
Real-World Example
Imagine someone's drug plan moves their medication to a higher-cost tier for next year. In November they compare plans with their prescriptions and switch by December 7. The new plan starts January 1.
Common Misconceptions
- It's the same as the Marketplace's Open Enrollment. Medicare's runs October 15 to December 7.
- It's when you first sign up for Medicare. First sign-up is the Initial Enrollment Period around your 65th birthday.
- Switching back to Original Medicare guarantees you a Medigap policy. Medigap may involve medical underwriting then.
Key Takeaways
- Medicare.gov lists the Open Enrollment Period as October 15 to December 7.
- Coverage starts January 1, if the plan gets your request by December 7.
- The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period is January 1 to March 31.
- Review your plan's notice of changes each fall.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Medicare Open Enrollment?
October 15 to December 7 each year.
What can I change during Medicare Open Enrollment?
Join, drop or switch Medicare Advantage and drug plans, and switch between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage.
What is the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period?
January 1 to March 31, for people already in Medicare Advantage: you can switch plans or return to Original Medicare.
Related Terms
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Explore the rest of the Medicare category.
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The factual claims on this page were checked against these sources. Rules and figures change, so check the source itself if you need to confirm the current version.
- medicare.govJoining a health or drug plan · Medicare.gov (U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services)
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