The quick answer
The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) runs October 15 – December 7 every year. It's when anyone with Medicare can change their Medicare Advantage or Part D coverage. Changes take effect January 1.
What you can do during AEP
- Switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage, or back
- Change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another
- Join, switch, or drop a Part D drug plan
What AEP isn't for
AEP isn't an open enrollment period for Medicare Supplement policies. You can apply for a Medigap policy at other times, but you may have to answer health questions.
How to prepare
- Read your Annual Notice of Change, which plans mail by September 30.
- Check that your doctors and pharmacies are still in network.
- Check next year's costs for each of your prescriptions.
- Compare your options — or schedule a review with me.
Missed it?
If you're in a Medicare Advantage plan, the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31) allows one change. Otherwise, you may need a Special Enrollment Period.
This page is general educational information, not personal advice. Medicare rules, costs, and plan options change and depend on your situation. For official information, visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227; TTY 1-877-486-2048).