What Is Medicare Open Enrollment?

Medicare open enrollment most commonly refers to the Annual Enrollment Period, which runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. During this window, anyone with Medicare can review and change their coverage, and any changes you make take effect on January 1 of the following year.

During this period you can switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan, move from a Medicare Advantage plan back to Original Medicare, change from one Medicare Advantage or Part D plan to another, or join or drop a Part D prescription drug plan. It is the main opportunity each year to make sure your coverage still fits your needs.

There is also a separate Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period from January 1 to March 31 for people already in a Medicare Advantage plan. Because plans change every year, open enrollment is a good time to compare your options. A licensed Medicare advisor can review your current plan against the alternatives so you can decide whether to stay or switch.

It is worth noting that the term open enrollment is sometimes confused with the Initial Enrollment Period around your 65th birthday or with the Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which are different windows with their own rules. If you are unsure which period applies to your situation, a licensed advisor can clarify your options so you act within the correct timeframe and avoid missing a deadline.