Medicare Annual Open Enrollment: October 15 – December 7, 2025

Medicare’s Annual Open Enrollment is approaching.

This period provides an opportunity for individuals enrolled in Medicare to review their current coverage and explore any available updates. Even if no changes are needed, it’s a good practice to confirm that your plan still aligns with your healthcare and prescription needs for the year ahead.

Understanding Medicare Open Enrollment

Each year, Medicare offers an opportunity for beneficiaries to review their coverage and make updates as needed. The Annual Open Enrollment Period (AEP) runs from October 15 through December 7, 2025, and any changes take effect on January 1, 2026.

This is the time for individuals to ensure their coverage continues to meet their health and financial needs for the upcoming year.

What Can Be Done During Open Enrollment

During this time, Medicare beneficiaries can:

  • Join, switch, or drop a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan
  • Add, change, or drop a Medicare Part D (prescription drug) plan
  • Move between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage

These options allow people to adjust coverage as their health needs or circumstances evolve.

Why Reviewing Coverage Each Year Matters

Health needs, provider networks, and prescription lists can change annually. Reviewing your coverage each fall helps ensure your plan continues to meet your needs. Reasons to review include:

  • Plan premiums, deductibles, and copays may change
  • Prescription drug formularies may be updated
  • Provider networks may add or remove doctors and pharmacies
  • New plan options or benefits may become available in your area

Taking time to review and compare helps ensure the most suitable coverage and cost for the coming year.

How to Prepare for Open Enrollment

  1. Review your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC)
    Each fall, your plan sends a notice detailing any cost or benefit updates for the next year.
  2. List your doctors, hospitals, and prescriptions
    Confirm that your preferred providers and medications remain covered.
  3. Compare available plans
    Use the Medicare Plan Finder on the official Medicare website to view and compare plans in your ZIP code.
  4. Be aware of important deadlines
    All changes must be completed by December 7, 2025, to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Key Dates to Remember

October 15 – December 7, 2025: Medicare Annual Open Enrollment
January 1, 2026: New coverage begins

Helpful Resources

  • Medicare.gov – Official U.S. Government Site
  • 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)
  • State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) — Free, unbiased counseling and assistance

Disclaimer

This information is provided for general educational purposes only. It does not endorse or recommend any specific Medicare plan, company, or product. For complete and up-to-date details about Medicare coverage options in your area, please visit Medicare.gov, call 1-800-MEDICARE, or contact your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).