Posted on Monday, October 20, 2025
|
by Sabrinah Cave
|
0 Comments
|
The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is a limited window each fall when you can change your Medicare coverage. If you have questions about AEP, this guide is for you.
What Is AEP?
The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) runs every year from October 15 through December 7. During this time, individuals already enrolled in Medicare can update their coverage. Any updates made during AEP will begin on January 1 of the following year.
Additionally, AEP is not a window to sign up for Original Medicare (Part A & B). There are designated times when you can enroll in Original Medicare, and some may overlap with AEP. If you need to sign up for Original Medicare, contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213.
What Changes Can Be Made During AEP?
The Annual Enrollment Period is an annual opportunity to make changes to Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) and Stand-alone prescription drug plans (Part D).
You may decide to:
- Replace Original Medicare with a Medicare Advantage plan that includes added benefits like vision, dental, hearing, or fitness programs
- Switch from one Advantage plan to another, especially if a different plan offers lower out-of-pocket costs, added coverage, or a vast provider network
- Add or change a stand-alone prescription drug plan (Part D)
- Drop coverage you no longer need—but be cautious, as dropping a drug plan could lead to a late enrollment penalty if you do not have other creditable drug coverage
In summary, you can drop a plan, switch plans, or return to Original Medicare. If you’re satisfied with your current plan, you can choose to keep your coverage. Just be sure you’re aware of any major changes coming in 2026.
What to Review Before Making a Change
Start by reviewing your plan’s Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) and Summary of Benefits (SOB). These documents outline changes in benefits, premiums, and provider networks for the upcoming year. Your current insurer is required to mail you these documents each September.
While reviewing, ask yourself: Has my health changed over the past year? Will my current coverage meet my future needs? A plan that worked well this year may not offer the same coverage or cost-sharing next year.
Also, be sure your doctors and specialists are still included in your plan’s network if you’re considering a Medicare Advantage plan. Out-of-network care could result in significantly higher expenses.
Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D)
If you take regular medications, pay close attention to how your drugs are covered in 2026. Each plan has a formulary, or list of covered drugs, and these can change year to year. During AEP, you can review these lists and ensure you’re choosing a plan with the most affordable and complete drug coverage for your situation.
Comparing plans during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period allows you to understand plan costs, benefits, and network access…all of which can affect your out-of-pocket spending!
What Happens If I Miss Medicare AEP?
Missing the Annual Enrollment Period can limit your options. Generally, you’ll need to wait until the next AEP to make changes unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). These special windows are granted for specific life events, such as moving to a new service area or losing employer coverage.
But don’t rely on that exception. The best way to avoid coverage disruptions is to act within the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period and secure your plan for the coming year.
The Difference Between AEP and MA OEP
It’s important to note that the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is not the same as the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA OEP). MA OEP runs from January 1 to March 31 and only applies to those already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan. During that time, you can make a one-time switch to another Medicare Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare—but you can’t use it to join a Medicare Advantage plan for the first time.
When comparing AEP and MA OEP, remember that AEP is the broader and more flexible enrollment window each year, and it applies to everyone.
Take Action Before December 7
The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is your chance to improve your Medicare plan. Don’t wait until the last minute! Review your options and compare benefits now to ensure you’re ready for the year ahead.
For help with Medicare plans – or any questions you may have about Medicare – contact AMAC’s Medicare Advisory Service at 1-855-611-4856 or request a quote by clicking the button below.
Read full article here