Plan Ahead for Medicare Annual Enrollment 2026
As we head into fall, it’s time to think about an important Medicare milestone: the Annual Enrollment Period. If you’re on Medicare, this is your chance to review your coverage and make changes if your needs have shifted, or if there will be changes to your current plan that you don’t like.
Key Dates for Annual Enrollment in 2026
October 1, 2026: Plan details for 2027 go live. You can start comparing Medicare Advantage (Part C) and prescription drug (Part D) options in your area, though you can’t make changes yet.
October 15 – December 7, 2026: Enrollment is officially open. This is when you can:
- Join a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan
- Switch to a different plan
- Drop coverage or switch back to Original Medicare
January 1, 2027: Any changes you made take effect. Make sure you review your new plan documents, so you understand your coverage and costs.
What About Medigap?
If you have a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, it works differently. The rules for joining or switching a Medigap plan are more complicated than those for Medicare Advantage and Part D plans. Reach out to us to discuss your options.
How to Get Ready Now
Between now and October, set aside some time to prepare.
- Gather recent medical bills and receipts
- Make or update your complete list of current medications and doses
- List the doctors and hospitals you have used most over the past year
- Check your current plan’s summary of coverage
- Watch for your Annual Notice of Changes (ANOC) from your health insurance company (usually arrives in late September)—this tells you what’s changing in your coverage, costs, provider and pharmacy network, and benefits for 2027
- Schedule a review session with our team starting October 1—slots fill up fast
The more organized you are, the easier it will be to make confident choices.
Let’s Plan Ahead
Whether you want to stick with what you have or explore new options, we can help you understand your current plan, see what else is available, and make sure your doctors, prescriptions, and other benefits are covered. Schedule now to meet with us starting October 1st.
If you have questions now about the process and what to expect, reach out anytime. We’re here to help make the process as straightforward and successful as possible.
