The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period is an annual opportunity for people enrolled in a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan to change their coverage. Here’s a detailed explanation:

What is the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period?

• When: January 1 – March 31 each year.
• Who: It applies to individuals already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan as of January 1.
• Purpose: It allows changes to your current Medicare Advantage plan or a switch back to Original Medicare.

What can you do during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period?

1. Switch Medicare Advantage plans:
   • You can change from one plan to another, whether it’s a plan with or without prescription drug coverage (Part D).
2. Drop your Medicare Advantage plan:
   • You can return to Original Medicare (Parts A and B).
   • If you choose this option, you can join a standalone Part D prescription drug plan.
   • Enroll in a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan.

What you cannot do during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period.

• Enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan if you’re not already in one.
• Change from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan.
• Join, switch, or drop a standalone Part D prescription drug plan unless tied to leaving a Medicare Advantage plan.

Key Considerations

1. One Change Only:
   • You are allowed to make one change during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period. After making a change, you cannot modify it again until the next annual enrollment period (October 15 – December 7).
2. Coverage Start Date:
   • Changes made during this enrollment period take effect on the first day of the month following your change.
3. Compare Plans:
   • Evaluate available plans’ costs, coverage, and provider networks before switching.
   • Find an independent Medicare agent (shameless plug) representing many insurers that can help you find the right plan for your situation. 🙂

The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period is especially useful if your current plan no longer meets your needs, you’ve experienced changes in your healthcare requirements, or you couldn’t make a change during the Annual Medicare Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7).

Review your coverage annually to ensure it aligns with your needs and budget!

Contact us

If you’re unhappy with your current plan, we’ll help you take advantage of the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period.

If you don’t have a trusted independent Medicare agent to call, please call our office at (888) 901-4870 or send us a message on our contact page.

You can also schedule a call here >> Talk with Chad

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment