Mark your calendar with these important dates and enrollment windows!
January 1
Medicare Advantage and Part D Prescription Drug plans become effective for the new plan year.
January 1 – March 31: Open Enrollment Period
Open Enrollment Period (OEP) – a time when a beneficiary can make a one-time change to a different Medicare Advantage plan; drop your Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare, Part A and Part B; or sign up for a stand-alone Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan (if you return to Original Medicare).
September: Annual Notice of Change Letter
Medicare Advantage and Part D Prescription Drug plans release their Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) listing any changes to their plans for the next year.
October 1: New Plan Information Available
Insurance Carriers and Agents are able to discuss plan changes and begin reviewing coverage for the next year.
October 15: Medicare Annual Election Period (AEP) Begins
Medicare Advantage and Part D Prescription Drug plans begin accepting applications for the upcoming plan year.
December 7: Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) Ends
The last day Medicare Advantage and Part D Prescription Drug plans are able to accept applications for the coming plan year. Exceptions apply for those qualifying for a Special Enrollment Period.
Becoming Medicare Eligible
When you first become eligible for Medicare, you can enroll in a Medicare Health Plan 3 months BEFORE and AFTER the month you turn age 65.
Becoming Medicare Eligible due to Disability
If you are eligible for Medicare due to disability, you can join during the 3 months BEFORE and AFTER your 25th month of disability.