After the Medicare Annual Election Period (AEP), which ends on December 7, there are still opportunities to make changes to your Medicare coverage. Here’s what you can do:
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31)
If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan, you have a one-time opportunity to switch to a different Medicare Advantage Plan, drop your Medicare Advantage Plan and return to Original Medicare (Parts A and B), or enroll in a stand-alone Part D (Prescription Drug Plan) if needed.
Note: This period is not available to those with Original Medicare.
Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs)
You may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you experience specific life events, such as:
Moving: If you move out of your plan’s service area.
Loss of Coverage: Losing employer or union coverage.
Joining a 5-Star Plan (December 8 – November 30)
If there is a 5-star rated Medicare Advantage, Part D, or Medicare Cost Plan in your area, you can switch to it at any time during the year. This option is available only once per calendar year.
Medigap Open Enrollment or Guaranteed Issue Rights
If you’ve returned to Original Medicare after the AEP (e.g., during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period), you might have the right to buy a Medigap (Medicare Supplement) policy:
Review Existing Coverage: Even if changes can’t be made immediately, you can use this time to review your current coverage and prepare for future enrollment periods.
Key Considerations
Any changes made during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period take effect on the first day of the month following the change.
Be cautious about changing coverage outside of designated periods to avoid penalties or gaps in coverage.
