Why Is There an Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) for Medicare?
The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)—from October 15 to December 7 each year—exists to give Medicare beneficiaries the opportunity to review and make changes to their coverage for the upcoming year.
💡 Here’s Why AEP Exists:
Plans Change Every Year
- Insurance companies can update premiums, copays, drug formularies, provider networks, and extra benefits (like dental, vision, or fitness).
- AEP allows you to respond to those changes and avoid surprise costs in the new year.
Your Health Needs May Change
- Maybe you’ve started new prescriptions, switched doctors, or need different coverage.
- AEP gives you a chance to adjust your plan so it continues to meet your needs.
Compare & Save
- Many people can find lower costs or better coverage by comparing plans during AEP.
- Even if you’re happy with your current plan, there may be a better fit available.
Keep Medicare Fair & Flexible
- AEP ensures everyone has a fair, predictable window to make changes—no surprises, no waiting another year if you need to adjust.
✅ What Can You Do During AEP?
- Switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage (or vice versa)
- Change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another
- Join, switch, or drop a Part D (prescription drug) plan
- Return to Original Medicare and add a Medigap policy (if eligible)
AEP helps keep Medicare responsive, personal, and fair—making sure you’re not locked into a plan that no longer works for you.
