When Can I Change Medicare Plans?
Because your health and your needs can change—and your coverage should be able to, too.
The Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 - December 7)
Once you’re enrolled in Original Medicare (Parts A & B), you can make changes to your coverage each year during the Annual Enrollment Period.
During this time, you can:
- Switch to a different prescription drug (Part D) plan
- Move from Medigap + Part D to a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan
- Switch Medicare Advantage plans, or go back to Original Medicare with Medigap + Part D
Any changes you make take effect on January 1 of the following year.
The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 - March 31)
If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you get another window to make changes between January 1 and March 31 each year.
During this period, you can:
- Switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan
- Leave Medicare Advantage and return to Original Medicare + Part D
Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs)
Life happens—and sometimes, it can affect your coverage.
If you move, lose your current plan, or your plan changes its service area, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).
During an SEP, you typically have two months to:
- Switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan, or
- Leave Medicare Advantage and move to Original Medicare + Part D
Changing Medigap Plans
You can apply for or switch Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plans any time of year.
However, if you sign up or change plans after age 65, you might pay more based on your health history—and in some cases, you could be denied coverage.
Your best window for guaranteed coverage is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period—the 6 months after your Part B coverage begins.
Keep Exploring
Not sure which enrollment period applies to you—or when you can make changes to your Medicare coverage?
Our guide breaks down every window, what you can do during each one, and how to avoid late penalties.
Read the blog post: Decode the 5 Medicare Enrollment Periods
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We work with multiple Medicare plan carriers including:
- Aetna Inc.
- Devoted Health, Inc.
- Humana Inc.
- Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company
Enrollment in a plan may be limited to certain times of the year unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period or you are in your Medicare Initial Enrollment Period. Enrollment depends on plan’s contract renewal with Medicare.
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Medicare Advantage and Part D plans are insured by a Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO and PFFS organization with a Medicare contract and/or a Medicare-approved Part D sponsor. Enrollment depends on plan’s contract renewal with Medicare.
We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 4 organizations which offer 1056 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all your options.
Not all carriers offer these benefits. Plans vary by region and state. Limitations and exclusions may apply.
Every year, Medicare evaluates Medicare Advantage and Part D plans based on a 5-star rating system.
Estimated annual costs are based on the usage you provided + yearly premiums. Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plan calculations include the standard Part B premium + any Part B premium reductions. Actual annual costs depend on your usage, along with your Part B premium and the date you enroll.
Medicare Supplement insurance is generally available to individuals age 65 and older enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B. Availability for beneficiaries under age 65 who qualify for Medicare due to disability or End Stage Renal Disease varies by state. Benefits, eligibility, and premiums may vary by state.
Jellyvision does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Calling this number will direct you to a licensed insurance agent. No obligation to enroll.
The Jellyvision Lab, Inc. All rights reserved. Jellyvision is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government entity. This is an advertisement for insurance.