Medicare Open Enrollment: What to Review Before Dec. 7

Medicare’s annual open enrollment period runs from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. Any changes you make take effect on Jan. 1. Even if you’re happy with your plan, it’s worth checking, because premiums, drug coverage and provider networks can change each year.

What you can do during open enrollment

• Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan, or back
• Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another
• Join, switch or drop a Part D prescription drug plan

Step 1: Read your plan’s notice

Your plan should have sent an Annual Notice of Change by the end of September. It lists changes in premiums, deductibles, copays, drug coverage and networks for next year.

Step 2: List your drugs and doctors

Make a list of your prescriptions (with doses) and the doctors and hospitals you use. These are the two things that matter most when comparing plans.

Step 3: Compare plans

Use the Medicare Plan Finder at Medicare.gov to compare total estimated costs, including premiums and drug costs, for plans in your area.

Prescription costs: Under the Inflation Reduction Act, Part D out-of-pocket drug costs are capped each year; the cap was $2,100 in 2026. You can also choose to spread drug costs over the year with the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan.

Step 4: Watch your Part B premium

The standard Part B premium was $202.90 a month in 2026. The 2027 amount is usually announced in the fall, and it’s deducted from Social Security for most beneficiaries. That means some of the 3.6% Social Security cost-of-living increase for 2027 may be offset. See our COLA story.

Get free help

• SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program): Free, unbiased one-on-one counseling.
• Extra Help: Lowers drug costs for people with limited income and resources.
• Medicare Savings Programs: Help pay Part A and B premiums and other costs for those who qualify.

Beware of marketing pressure

Be cautious of unsolicited calls or ads that pressure you to switch plans. Never give your Medicare number to someone who calls you unexpectedly.

Missed the window?

Medicare Advantage enrollees get another chance from Jan. 1 to March 31 to switch Medicare Advantage plans or return to Original Medicare.