Medicare Annual Enrollment Period: What You Need to Know for 2025
What Is the Annual Enrollment Period?
The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) happens every year from October 15 to December 7. During this time, anyone with Medicare can review their current coverage and make changes for the upcoming year. New plan selections will take effect January 1, 2026.
Why This Time of Year Matters
Medicare plans, including Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans, can change each year. Your premiums, benefits, and provider networks may be different next year, so it’s important to review your options.
What You Can Do During Annual Enrollment
During the Annual Enrollment Period, you can:
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Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan
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Switch from a Medicare Advantage plan back to Original Medicare
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Change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another
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Join, drop, or switch a Part D prescription drug plan
Who Should Review Their Plan?
You should consider reviewing your plan if:
Your monthly premium or out-of-pocket costs are increasing
Your prescriptions have changed
Your doctors or preferred pharmacy are no longer in your plan’s network
You’ve seen ads or mail about new plan benefits you might want
You want to explore options for extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, or meal delivery
Important Dates to Remember
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October 15 — AEP begins
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December 7 — AEP ends
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January 1, 2026 — Your new coverage starts