Medicare AEP Is Almost Here: What Can You Change?

Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) runs from October 15 through December 7 each year. It’s your opportunity to review your Medicare coverage and make changes for the coming year. Any changes made during AEP generally take effect January 1.

During AEP, you CAN:

• Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another.
• Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan.
• Leave Medicare Advantage and return to Original Medicare.
• Join, change, or drop a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan.

What AEP does NOT do:
AEP is not a special enrollment period for Medicare Parts A and B, and it does not automatically give you guaranteed access to a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan. Depending on your situation and where you live, changing Medigap coverage may involve different enrollment rules.

Do You Have to Change Your Plan?

No! If your current coverage continues to meet your needs, you don’t have to change simply because it’s AEP. But it is a good time to review your plan’s Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) because premiums, copays, prescription coverage, provider networks and other benefits can change from year to year.

A simple Medicare check-up now can help prevent surprises in January.

Have questions about your Medicare coverage for 2027? I’m happy to help you review your options and determine whether a change makes sense—or whether staying right where you are is the best choice.