OCTOBER 15 – DECEMBER 7
Fall Open Enrollment
Often called AEP. Changes allowed during this period depend on your current coverage. Requests received by December 7 generally take effect January 1.
Read the AEP rules →Operated by HealthBenefitsCompass LLC, a subsidiary of HealthcareGPS Inc.Medicare education · Not a government websiteReviewed by Lauri Middleton, RN, MSN (licensed Medicare agent) and Karen OrillaHow we prepare our guidance →Meet our reviewers →
Reviewed for accuracy by Lauri Middleton, RN, MSN, licensed Medicare agentReviewed for clarity by Karen OrillaMeet our reviewers →
Understand the timing
Review any time. Know when changes may be possible.
The enrollment period and your circumstances affect your options. A date on the calendar does not confirm eligibility.
A year-round perspective
You can review coverage throughout the year. Confirm any enrollment period and your individual situation before making a change.
Planning for fall 2026
October 15–December 7, 2026 is the annual enrollment period for coverage changes that generally start January 1, 2027. The January–March Medicare Advantage window is separate and is not a chance for someone in Original Medicare to join Medicare Advantage.
Considering Medigap? Its purchase rights follow different rules. Before ending current coverage, check whether you can buy the policy you want and when it can start.
Check Medicare.gov’s Medigap purchase guidance →JANUARY 1 – MARCH 31
Medicare Advantage OEP
For people already in Medicare Advantage. Generally, one change to another MA plan or back to Original Medicare with an opportunity for separate drug coverage.
Read MA OEP rules →WHEN LIFE CHANGES
Special Enrollment Periods
Some events may create an enrollment opportunity. The options and timing depend on the event and your circumstances.
Read special-period rules →Put the timing in context.
These answers stay in this open page. This is education, not an eligibility check.
Questions to clarify
First identify the current coverage. January–March MA OEP is for people already in Medicare Advantage, not a general enrollment opportunity for everyone.
A separate opportunity can apply during the first three months of Medicare for someone who joined Medicare Advantage during initial enrollment. Confirm the exact situation and dates with Medicare.
A life event may involve a Special Enrollment Period. The event and timing must be checked individually; this page does not determine eligibility.
Before leaving current coverage
Ask how a change affects drug coverage, employer or union coverage, and other insurance. Returning to Original Medicare does not guarantee access to a Medigap policy.
Check Medigap considerations →A question to bring with you
Ask which enrollment rules apply before making any coverage change.
Sources checked October 10, 2026.