Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
The Annual Enrollment Period runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. During this time, you can switch Medicare Advantage plans, switch to Original Medicare, or change Part D plans.
Understanding Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), also called Open Enrollment, runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. Changes made during AEP take effect January 1 of the following year.
During AEP, you can switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage or vice versa, change your Medicare Advantage plan, join, drop, or switch Part D prescription drug plans.
This is an important time to review your coverage since plans change their costs, benefits, formularies, and networks each year. The plan that worked last year may not be the best choice this year.
You should receive an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) from your current plan by September 30, outlining any changes to your coverage for the coming year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What changes can I make during AEP?
During AEP (October 15 - December 7), you can switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage, change MA plans, switch back to Original Medicare, or join, drop, or switch Part D plans.
When do AEP changes take effect?
All changes made during the Annual Enrollment Period take effect on January 1 of the following year.
Related Terms
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
The Initial Enrollment Period is the 7-month window when you first become eligible for Medicare, usually around your 65th birthday. It includes 3 months before, the month of, and 3 months after your birthday.
Special Enrollment Period (SEP)
A Special Enrollment Period is a time outside of the normal enrollment periods when you can make changes to your Medicare coverage due to certain life events like moving or losing other coverage.
Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage (Part C) is an alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. These plans include Part A, Part B, and usually Part D coverage in one plan.
Part D
Medicare Part D is prescription drug coverage. You can get it through a standalone Prescription Drug Plan (PDP) or through a Medicare Advantage plan that includes drug coverage.
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