Enrollment Periods

Medicare Enrollment Periods

Upon initially enrolling in Medicare during your Initial Enrollment Period, you'll choose between Original Medicare (Parts A and B) or a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C), which integrates both types of coverage. Additionally, Part D (prescription drug) coverage is an option with either of these selections.

However, once decisions are made, you're not locked into those plans indefinitely. Medicare offers opportunities to modify your plan(s) based on circumstances.

Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)

Following enrollment in Medicare, you retain the right to review your plan selections and make adjustments annually. From October 15 to December 7, the Annual Election Period provides the chance to modify Part C (Advantage) or Part D (prescription) plans.

During this period, you can:

  • Transition from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan

  • Discontinue a Medicare Advantage Plan and revert to Original Medicare

  • Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another

  • Enroll in a Part D prescription drug plan

  • Terminate your Part D prescription drug plan

  • Alter your Part D prescription drug plan

Medicare Open Enrollment Period

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment

Should you reconsider a Medicare Advantage Plan for any reason, the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period from January 1 to March 31 allows adjustments.

During this period, you can:

  • Change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another

  • Return from Medicare Advantage to Original (Parts A and B) Medicare

  • Add a Part D prescription plan

  • Discontinue a Part D prescription plan

    It's important to note: While dropping a Medicare Advantage plan and returning to Original Medicare is an option, securing a Medigap plan is not guaranteed. Carriers have the discretion to screen applicants and may choose not to enroll you.

What if adjustments are needed outside of these periods?

Certain circumstances, such as relocation or loss of coverage, may qualify you for a two-month Special Enrollment Period. This window allows modifications to your Medicare plan(s).

For instance, relocating to a different geographic area might trigger a Special Enrollment Period if your current network isn't available at the new location.

During your SEP, you can switch to a new Medicare Advantage plan or Part D plan, or revert to Original Medicare without penalties. In specific scenarios, you might also be eligible to enroll in a Medigap plan without medical underwriting requirements (known as guaranteed issue rights).

If you believe you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, it's advisable to promptly contact your plan administrator after the qualifying event. We're available to assist you through this process.