Medicare
Only a week left in Medicare open enrollment? A day-by-day plan
Open enrollment ends December 7. If you are in the final week, spend the first day gathering your information and the second on a call. Leave the last days as a cushion in case something needs fixing.
A simple schedule
- Day one: find your Annual Notice of Change, your medicine list and your doctors' names.
- Day two: call, compare plans for your county, and decide.
- Days three and four: finish and confirm the application, and check that you got a confirmation.
- The last day: do not leave your enrollment for the last day. Use it only to double-check.
If you run out of time
After December 7, most people are locked in until the next open enrollment. People in a Medicare Advantage plan can still make one change between January 1 and March 31, and a few situations, such as moving, open a special enrollment period.
Have this ready when you call
- Your notice and plan card
- Your medicine list
- Your doctors' names
Common questions
Does my new plan start right away?
Changes made during open enrollment take effect on January 1.
Can I still switch on December 7?
Yes, but it is risky to wait for the last day because paperwork can need correcting. Start earlier if you can.
Related answers
Rather talk it through?
Call 855-367-1095 and a licensed agent will go through your situation with you. There is no charge to ask, and no obligation to enroll.
- Licensed insurance help
- No guaranteed eligibility, pricing, or availability
- Educational starting point
GetFastRates.com is not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. Calling connects you with licensed insurance help. Plan availability, costs, benefits, and enrollment rules can vary by state, carrier, and individual situation.