Medicare
What is the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period?
The Annual Enrollment Period runs October 15 to December 7 every year. Anyone with Medicare can join, switch or drop an Advantage or drug plan, and the change starts January 1.
What you can do in it
- Switch from one Advantage plan to another.
- Move from Original Medicare to an Advantage plan, or back.
- Join, switch or drop a stand-alone drug plan.
- Change as many times as you like; the last choice before December 7 is the one that counts.
What it does not do
It does not change Original Medicare benefits, and it is not when you first sign up for Parts A and B. A Medigap policy can be bought outside this period, though the rules for approval differ.
Have this ready when you call
- Your Medicare card
- Your current plan's card and notice
Common questions
Is it the same as open enrollment for the marketplace?
No. Marketplace open enrollment is a separate period for health insurance under the ACA. This one is for Medicare plans.
Do I have to do anything every year?
No, but checking your plan each fall is worth it because costs, networks and drug lists change.
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.