Medicare Annual Enrollment runs from October 15 through December 7. It is the main yearly window when people with Medicare can make certain changes to Medicare health and prescription drug coverage for the following year.
What should you review before October 15?
Start with the materials your current plan sends you. CMS specifically points beneficiaries to the Evidence of Coverage and Annual Notice of Change because plans can change costs, coverage, provider networks and pharmacy networks from year to year.
What can you change during Annual Enrollment?
Depending on your situation, the Annual Enrollment Period can be used to change Medicare Advantage or prescription drug coverage for the following year. Official plan-specific options should be checked on Medicare.gov or with a licensed professional.
When do changes take effect?
Valid Annual Enrollment changes generally take effect January 1 of the following year.
What should you compare?
Compare more than premium. Review doctors, hospitals, prescriptions, pharmacy access, deductibles, copays, coinsurance, plan rules, out-of-pocket limits and benefits that matter to you.
What should you do now?
Use the weeks before October 15 to collect your current plan documents, medication list, doctors, preferred pharmacies and the questions you want answered.
Official sources
Use Medicare.gov and CMS Medicare Open Enrollment resources for official Medicare information.
Explore the Ensurance Medicare resource center or use the 2027 Medicare Plan Review Checklist.
Ensurance is not Medicare.gov, CMS, or an insurance carrier. This page is educational and does not guarantee eligibility, plan availability, quotes or savings.