Medicare Enrollment Period
Everything you need to know about the enrollment period, including critical dates and what you need to do.
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Understanding the Enrollment Window
Every year, Medicare offers a specific time when you can review, change, or update your coverage. This is known as the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP).
For 2026 Plans, the Medicare Enrollment Period runs from October 15th through December 7th 2025.
During this window, you can:
- Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C)
- Switch from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another
- Join, change, or drop a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D)
- Review your current coverage to make sure it still meets your health and financial needs
Once the deadline passes, most people will not be able to make changes until next year’s enrollment period, unless they qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.
Important Dates for Medicare Enrollment 2026
| Key Date | Event |
|---|---|
| October 1 | Plan details for 2025 become available for review |
| October 15 | Annual Enrollment Period begins |
| December 7 | Last day to make changes or enroll |
| January 1, 2026 | Your new coverage starts |
Why It Matters
Even if you’re happy with your current plan, it’s important to review your coverage every year.
Insurance companies can make changes that affect:
- Monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs
- Prescription drug coverage and formularies
- Doctor and hospital networks
- Added benefits like dental, vision, or hearing
A plan that worked well this year may not be the best fit next year, and small differences can add up to hundreds of dollars saved or better coverage for your needs.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
If you don’t make changes by December 7th, 2025, your current plan will automatically renew (if it’s still offered) for the year ahead in 2026.
However, you’ll have to wait until the
next Annual Enrollment Period to make adjustments, unless you experience a qualifying event (like moving, losing coverage, or becoming newly eligible).
That’s why it’s important to take action before the window closes; so you’re not locked into a plan that no longer fits your situation.
Getting Everything Done Before The Deadline
The clock is ticking on the 2026 Medicare Enrollment Period.
Let’s make sure your plan fits your health needs, covers your prescriptions, and doesn’t cost you more than it should.
Contact us today before the deadline expires.