What you can do during Medicare Annual Enrollment
From October 15 to December 7, anyone with Medicare can make changes to their coverage for the next year. Changes take effect January 1.
- Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan, or back again
- Change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another
- Join, switch, or drop a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan
- Review your plan's Annual Notice of Change to see what is different next year
Plan types to compare
The right fit depends on your doctors, prescriptions, budget, and where you live.
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Plans from private insurers that cover Parts A and B. Many include drug coverage, and some add dental, vision, or hearing benefits. Benefits vary by plan and area.
Part D drug plans
Stand-alone prescription coverage for people on Original Medicare. Check that your medicines are on the plan's drug list and compare total yearly costs.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
Helps pay costs Original Medicare doesn't, such as deductibles and coinsurance. Medigap enrollment isn't limited to Annual Enrollment, but approval rules vary by state.
Key dates for 2027 coverage
- Oct 15 to Dec 7, 2026Medicare Annual Enrollment Period
- Nov 1 to Dec 15, 2026Health Insurance Marketplace Open Enrollment on HealthCare.gov for people under 65. Some states with their own marketplace allow more time.
- Jan 1, 2027New plan coverage begins
- Jan 1 to Mar 31, 2027Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment: people already in a Medicare Advantage plan can make one switch
Under 65 and need coverage?
If you don't have Medicare or coverage through work, you can shop Marketplace plans during Open Enrollment. Depending on your household income, you may qualify for savings that lower your monthly premium. A life event such as moving, losing other coverage, or having a baby may let you enroll outside Open Enrollment.