The Medicare Annual Election Period, also known as the Medicare Fall Open Enrollment or AEP, is the time of year for Medicare beneficiaries to review and adjust their Medicare coverage. The Annual Election Period runs from October 15 to December 7 each year, with any changes taking effect on January 1 of the following year[2][3][6].
During this period, beneficiaries can make several changes to their plans. They can switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan or vice versa, change between Medicare Advantage Plans, and join, switch, or drop a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan[3][5]. This flexibility allows individuals to tailor their coverage to better meet their needs as circumstances change.
To prepare for the AEP, beneficiaries should carefully review their “Annual Notice of Change” letter, which outlines any changes in cost and coverage for the upcoming year[2][6]. This is crucial because plans may alter their premiums, covered medications, or provider networks. Beneficiaries should assess whether their current plan still meets their healthcare needs and budget.
It is also advisable to consult with healthcare providers to ensure they will continue accepting the chosen plan in the coming year[2]. Additionally, setting up a MyMedicare.gov account can provide easy access to personal Medicare-related information and help manage plan choices effectively[2].
Overall, the AEP is an opportunity for beneficiaries to optimize their Medicare coverage. By staying informed and proactive, individuals can ensure they have the best possible healthcare coverage for the upcoming year.
Sources:
[1] Special Enrollment Periods – Medicare https://www.medicare.gov/basics/get-started-with-medicare/get-more-coverage/joining-a-plan/special-enrollment-periods
[2] Medicare Annual Election Period | Review Drug Plan Choices https://boomerbenefits.com/how-to-prepare-for-the-medicare-annual-election-period/
[3] What to Know about the Medicare Open Enrollment Period … – KFF https://www.kff.org/medicare/issue-brief/what-to-know-about-the-medicare-open-enrollment-period-and-medicare-coverage-options/
[4] Medicare and You Handbook 2025 https://www.medicare.gov/publications/10050-medicare-and-you.pdf
[5] Understanding Medicare Advantage and Medicare drug plan … https://www.medicare.gov/publications/11219-Understanding-Medicare-Advantage-Medicare-Drug-Plan-Enrollment-Periods.pdf
[6] Medicare Open Enrollment – CMS https://www.cms.gov/priorities/key-initiatives/medicare-open-enrollment-partner-resources
[7] The Guide to Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) | eHealth https://www.ehealthinsurance.com/medicare/enrollment/medicare-annual-election-period-aep/
[8] Enrollment & Disenrollment in Medicare Advantage Plans https://cahealthadvocates.org/medicare-advantage/enrollment-disenrollment-in-medicare-advantage-plans/
Joe DeAngelis
Medicare Specialist
We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY users should call 1 (877) 486-2048) 24 hours a day/7 days a week to get information on all of your options.