Medicare Enrollment Periods

What are the Medicare enrollment periods?

Each year, there are five set times you can enroll in Medicare or change existing Medicare plans. They include:

• Current Medicare recipients can change or enroll in Medicare Advantage coverage during this period that runs October 15-December 7 each year. During AEP, you can:

• Switch from Medicare Parts A and B (Original Medicare) to a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C)

• Change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another

• Switch from one Medicare Prescription Drug plan (Part D) to another

• Add a Medicare Part D plan if you didn’t enroll when first eligible for Medicare

Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

• Moving to a new location where new plan options are available

• Losing employer coverage

• Being diagnosed with a qualifying chronic condition, such as diabetes or chronic heart failure

• Moving in or out of a skilled nursing facility or long-term care hospital

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP)

• Switch to a different Medicare Advantage Plan

• Drop Medicare Advantage and return to Original Medicare (Part A and Part B)

• Sign up for a stand-alone Medicare Part D Prescription Drug plan, if an individual elects to return to an Original Medicare plan

The Medicare Advantage OEP is only accessible for current Medicare Advantage policyholders. During Medicare Advantage OEP, Original Medicare policyholders cannot:

• Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan

• Join a Medicare Prescription Drug plan (Part D)

• Switch Medicare Prescription Drug plans

Let Us Help You Understand Your Medicare Enrollment Options

If you’re ready to explore your Medicare options, save yourself time and the hassle of navigating the Medicare maze on your own. In just minutes, we can compare plans available in your area from some of the most trusted carriers. Don’t wait to ensure you’re getting all the benefits available to you—get started today. It’s a free service and there’s no obligation to enroll.