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What to do during Medicare Annual Enrollment
The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is from October 15 to December 7. During this time, beneficiaries can make changes to their Medicare coverage without penalty. Whether you’re making decisions for yourself or a loved one, you may choose to join, switch, or drop a Medicare Advantage or Part D prescription drug plan. You can also choose to keep the existing coverage.
Below are helpful resources and information to help you feel confident and ready for AEP, especially if you’re helping someone else make Medicare decisions.
Changes you can make during AEP
- Drop a Medicare Advantage plan for Original Medicare. If you do, you’ll also lose the prescription drug coverage that was included with the Medicare Advantage plan.
- Add a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan (PDP) to Original Medicare or certain Medicare Advantage plans.
- Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan. If you do, you may be able to drop standalone Part D coverage as most Medicare Advantage plans include prescription drug coverage.
- Drop a current Part D or Medicare Advantage plan and enroll in a new one.
Should I keep my current Medicare coverage?
You or a loved one may have experienced changes in health, finances, or overall lifestyle in the last year. Ask yourself, “Is this Medicare plan still right for me/them?” You can use our Medicare plan review worksheet to start evaluating Medicare coverage options.
Reasons to maintain coverage
After receiving an annual notice of change (ANOC) letter from a plan provider, you may wonder whether it’s better to keep the existing coverage or switch plans. Consider factors such as staying within a certain network or tier under the prescription drug formulary.
Also consider the value of extra benefits that come with some Medicare plans, such as gym memberships, dental and vision coverage, or over-the-counter allowances. These benefits may offset higher monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs.
Do I have to renew my Medicare plan?
If you or a loved one decide to keep the existing Medicare coverage, you may wonder if you need to renew with the plan provider. You do not. As long as premiums and other costs are paid, you do not need to actively re-enroll in the plan.
Considering switching Medicare plans?
If a Medicare plan has been discontinued, or if different coverage is wanted/needed, switching Medicare plans may be the right move. Compare Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans to figure out which is right for you or someone you’re caring for.
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If you're caring for someone close to you and helping them prepare for the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period, we have additional resources to help you along the way.
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