It’s Time to Start Thinking About Medicare AEP for 2026
As summer rolls on, now is the perfect time to start preparing for one of the most important Medicare milestones of the year: the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). If you're enrolled in Medicare, this is your chance to review your current coverage, make changes, and ensure your 2026 plan still fits your health and financial needs.
Here’s a quick guide to what AEP is, when it happens, and how you can get ready.
Key Medicare AEP Dates for 2025–2026
- October 1, 2025:
You can begin reviewing your 2026 Medicare Advantage (Part C) and prescription drug (Part D) plan options. While you can't make changes just yet, this is when insurers release their new plan details — including costs, coverage, and provider networks. - October 15 – December 7, 2025:
The Annual Enrollment Period is officially open. During this window, you can: - Join a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan
- Switch plans
- Drop coverage or return to Original Medicare
- January 1, 2026:
Any changes you made during AEP take effect. Be sure to review your new plan information so you understand your coverage and any out-of-pocket costs.
Don’t Forget About Medigap (Medicare Supplement Plans)
If you have a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, it’s important to know that AEP doesn’t apply to these policies. You can review or apply for a Medigap plan at any time during the year — though underwriting may be required outside of your initial enrollment window.
Still, this is a great time to check in on your Medigap coverage if your health or finances have changed.
How to Start Preparing Now
While you won’t be able to make plan changes until October 15, there’s plenty you can do now to make the process smoother:
- Gather recent medical bills and expenses.
- List your current prescriptions and dosages.
- Note your preferred doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies.
- Review last year’s coverage summary or annual notice of changes.
- Watch for your Annual Notice of Changes (ANOC) from your health insurance carrier in late September. It outlines any changes in your coverage or costs.
- Set a reminder to check back in early October for 2026 plan details.
The better prepared you are, the easier it will be to compare options and make confident, informed decisions once AEP opens.
You Don’t Have to Navigate Medicare Alone
Choosing the right Medicare coverage can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to go it alone. Whether you're happy with your current plan or want to explore new options, a licensed Medicare agent can help you:
- Understand your current plan’s changes
- Compare available options in your area
- Ensure your doctors and prescriptions are covered
- Avoid late penalties or coverage gaps
Ready to Get Started?
While plan specifics can’t be discussed until October 1, now’s the perfect time to start gathering information and thinking about your needs. If you have questions about Medicare AEP or want help getting organized, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Let’s make your 2026 coverage the right fit — together.
