Medicare’s Annual Election Period (AEP), also called Open Enrollment, runs from October 15 – December 7.

For many people, this season feels overwhelming. With all the choices, and all the chaos, sometimes it’s tempting to just ignore it and hope everything stays the same. I've broken it down for you in plain English so you know exactly what this window means, (whether it even applies to you), and exactly what to do to get ready.



#1 Know Who Open Enrollment Is For (& Who Can Skip It)

Here’s the simple version:

• If you have a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C):
  This is your chance to switch to a different Advantage plan, or go back to Original Medicare (careful though: you may not be guaranteed acceptance onto a Medigap plan to pair with your Original Medicare.  Consider getting approved on the Medigap plan first, before dropping the Advantage Plan).
• If you have a standalone Part D prescription drug plan:
  This is your time to review and switch if needed.
• If you have Original Medicare with a Medigap (supplement) plan:
  Open Enrollment doesn’t apply to Medigap. But you can still take action on the following:   
• 1.) check your stand-alone drug coverage (Part D). 
• 2.) Consider shopping your Medigap rates since you can apply for a lower rate any time of year.
• 3.) If your rates are too high and you can't qualify to lower them, you may consider switching to an Advantage Plan (must be done during the fall AEP).

• If you’re not on Medicare yet:
  You can ignore this enrollment window and focus on YOUR personal Medicare timeline. You'll take action during your Initial Enrollment Period (around your 65th birthday or when you leave employer coverage).

#2 What’s That Letter in the Mail?  Find Your Plan's "ANOC"

If you’re already enrolled in an Advantage plan or Part D drug plan, you should receive a letter, or more commonly a booklet, each September called the Annual Notice of Change (ANOC).

This packet of information outlines what’s changing in your plan for the next year, including things like:

• Monthly premiums
• Copays and deductibles
• Benefits

⚠️ What it doesn’t always spell out clearly: changes to the coverage of YOUR personal prescription list, pharmacy networks, or doctor networks. For that, you’ll need to double-check on your plan’s website starting October 1.

#3 See the Signs: It Might Be Time to Switch

So how do you know if you should make a change? Here are a few red flags 🚩 :

• Your premiums or copays are going up
• Your prescription needs have changed (or costs feel too high)
• You’ve had a new health diagnosis or need new specialists
• You’ve accidentally used out-of-network providers (ouch on those bills!)
• You’ve never reviewed your plan, but just let it auto-renew

Even if everything feels fine, it’s still smart to check. Plans can change behind the scenes from year to year.

When Do Changes Take Effect?

Any changes you make during Open Enrollment will start on January 1, 2026.

And here’s a little safety net:



• During Open Enrollment (Oct 15 – Dec 7), you can change your plan more than once—the last one submitted is the one that sticks.
• If you’re in a Medicare Advantage plan, you also have a one-time chance between January 1 – March 31 to make another switch.

You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

Here’s the best part: you don’t have to sort through all the fine print or second-guess your decisions. That’s what I’m here for.

As an independent Medicare broker, I walk you through your options step by step, no pressure, no cost to you. My goal is to make sure your plan actually fits you going into 2026.

I'm currently scheduling new client appointments for those looking to make a Medicare Advantage Plan switch - whether dropping it and moving to Medigap, or moving to a more suitable Advantage Plan.

I'm also working with those seeking to go from their Medigap to an Advantage Plan.

The majority of drug plans don't compensate brokers so I have to limit "drug plan only" appointments to those that are existing clients with a Medigap plan or those working on their Medigap or Advantage Plan changes with me.  Sorry for any inconvenience!

👉 Ready to make sure you’re set for the year ahead? Book a time on my calendar here and let’s review your plan together.