Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) — October 15 to December 7 — is the one window each year when anyone on Medicare can change their Medicare Advantage or Part D coverage for the year ahead.
AEP at a glance
The Annual Enrollment Period runs October 15 through December 7 each year. Changes you make take effect January 1.
What you can change during AEP
- Join, switch, or drop a Medicare Advantage plan
- Join, switch, or drop a Part D prescription drug plan
- Move from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage, or the reverse
Any change you make during AEP takes effect January 1. If you make more than one change, the last one on record by December 7 is the one that takes effect.
Why you should review your plan every AEP
Even a plan you like can change underneath you. Premiums, deductibles, drug formularies, provider networks, and extra benefits all reset on January 1. The plan that fit you best this year may not next year, and a quick review during AEP is the easiest way to avoid surprises. Use our Medicare costs guide and drug cost estimator to check whether your plan still fits.
AEP vs. the Medicare Advantage OEP
AEP is open to everyone. If you are already in a Medicare Advantage plan and want one more chance to change after January 1, that is the separate Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31).
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period?
Every year from October 15 through December 7. Changes you make take effect January 1.
What can I do during AEP?
You can join, switch, or drop a Medicare Advantage plan; join, switch, or drop a Part D prescription drug plan; and move between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage.
Do I have to do anything during AEP?
No, your current plan generally renews automatically. But plans change their costs, drug formularies, and networks every year, so AEP is the time to review whether your plan is still the best fit.
Is AEP the same as the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period?
No. AEP (October 15 – December 7) is open to everyone. The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31) only lets people already in a Medicare Advantage plan make one additional change.
Talk to a Licensed Medicare Advisor
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Get My Free ReviewThis information is for educational purposes only and is not legal, tax, or insurance advice. Medicare rules, premiums, and income thresholds change annually — confirm current figures with Medicare.gov, the Social Security Administration, or a licensed advisor. HealthPlan Connect is not affiliated with or endorsed by the federal Medicare program or any government agency. Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by Lynsey Brennan, Licensed Medicare Advisor (FL #G007269).