The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is your once-a-year chance to review your Medicare coverage and make it work for you. Will your doctor still be in-network next year? Will your medications cost more? If you skip the review, you could wake up to surprises. Here’s how to tackle it with purpose, without the stress.
Why This Review Matters (and Why You Might Be Avoiding It)
That nagging question — “Is my plan still a good fit?” — is exactly what this review is for. Each year your plan’s cost-sharing, network and drug list can change, even if the plan’s name stays the same. Waiting until the last minute or skipping the check entirely is a fast-track to higher bills or lost doctors.
Step 1: Gather Your “Real-Life” List
Before you dive into comparing plans, get your personal list ready:
-
Your doctors, specialists and hospitals you actually use
-
Your medications, with doses and pharmacy info
-
A snapshot of last year’s usage: doctor visits, hospital stays, medications
You’re not comparing a plan for “average” people. You’re comparing a plan for you. Networks and drug lists can change each year. Make sure the plan you get fits your needs.
Step 2: Review Your Current Plan’s Changes
When you receive your plan’s update for next year, don’t toss it aside. Ask yourself:
-
Did the premium or deductible change?
-
Are my preferred doctors or hospitals still in-network next year?
-
Are my meds still covered under the same tier and through the same pharmacy?
Assuming “everything’s fine” is a big mistake. Just because your plan has the same name as it did last year doesn’t mean the details are the same. It’s important to do a thorough review before you commit to another year.
Step 3: Compare Your Options Side-by-Side
Treat this like buying a car—you care how it works, not just how it looks. With your lists in hand and plan changes noted, compare options by looking at:
-
Total annual cost: premium + deductible + copays + drug costs
-
Whether your doctors and hospitals are in-network for each plan
-
If your medications are covered—and what restrictions apply
-
Your worst-case scenario for costs this year if you need a lot of care
Step 4: Don’t Let Perks Steal The Show
Free gym memberships, extras or wellness add-ons are appealing, but they shouldn’t override the essentials. If your doctors aren’t covered or your medications cost too much, the perks won’t matter. Core coverage comes first; extras come second.
Step 5: Time-Your Move (Don’t Rush—But Don’t Delay)
Mark your calendar: AEP starts October 15 and ends December 7. Starting early gives you options and time. Waiting until the last week equals stress, fewer choices, and higher risk of mistakes. But skipping the review thinking you’ll “do it later” can lock you into higher costs or worse coverage.
Step 6: Once You Decide — Confirm And Save
After you pick a plan:
-
Confirm your enrollment or switch was accepted
-
Save your new ID card and plan documents
-
Note when your old plan ends and when the new begins (usually January 1)
-
Make sure your prescriptions and doctors are ready for the transition
Step 7: Set A Reminder For Next Year
This isn’t a “set and forget.” Plans change, so should you. Set a reminder for next September: review your doctors, medications, usage and plan updates for the coming year.
FAQs
What is the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) for Medicare?
The AEP runs each year from October 15 to December 7. During this time you can review and change your Medicare Advantage (Part C) or Prescription Drug (Part D) plan for the coming year.
Do I have to make a change during AEP?
No, you’re not required to make a change. If your current plan continues to cover your doctors, medications and costs in a way you’re comfortable with, you can keep it. But skipping the review means you may miss changes in your coverage or costs.
What kinds of changes can I make during the AEP?
You can:
-
Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan (if eligible), or vice versa.
-
Change your Medicare Advantage plan to a different one.
-
Enroll in, drop, or switch a Part D Prescription Drug Plan.
Can I change my Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan during AEP?
Typically not via AEP. Medigap (supplement) plans have separate rules. The AEP is most relevant for Advantage and Part D plans. If you’re considering Medigap changes, you may need to check your state’s rules or other enrollment windows.
What happens if I miss the AEP window?
If you miss the AEP and don’t qualify for another enrollment period (like a Special Enrollment Period), you may have to wait until the next AEP to make changes. Delaying can also mean you’re stuck in a plan that no longer fits your needs — potentially with higher costs or different providers.
Putting Your Plan into Motion
Reviewing during AEP isn’t optional. It’s smart. You don’t have to change your plan every year, but you do have to check it.
Use this game plan: gather your real data, review your current plan’s changes, compare options side-by-side, prioritize fit over perks, time your actions, and confirm your choices. Do that and you’ll sleep better knowing your Medicare coverage won’t blindside you.
