What to Do When Medicare Annual Enrollment Opens

The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) runs from October 15 to December 7, giving Medicare beneficiaries the opportunity to review and update their Medicare coverage options for the upcoming year. Most changes take effect January 1, so this window is the ideal time to make sure your plan still fits your needs. This step-by-step guide walks you through what to do as AEP opens and how to approach your Medicare plan comparison with confidence.

Start With Your ANOC Review

Your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) explains how your current plan will change next year. Reviewing it early helps you understand updates to premiums, copays, deductibles, benefits, drug coverage, and provider networks. If anything no longer aligns with your needs or budget, it may be time to explore new Medicare plans.

Check Your Current Costs and Benefits

Make a simple list of what you spent this year on premiums, medication costs, and out-of-pocket medical expenses. Compare those numbers to the benefits you actually used. This gives you a clear picture of whether your current Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan still makes financial sense.

Review Your Doctors and Specialists

If you rely on specific physicians, confirm they remain in-network for next year’s Medicare Advantage plans. Networks can change annually, and verifying your providers now can help you avoid disruptions to your care.

Update Your Prescription List

Review your medications and check how they are covered under various Prescription Drug Plans Part D. Formularies can shift each year, so comparing your options may reveal lower drug costs or better coverage.

Compare Medicare Advantage and Part D Options

AEP is the time to compare Medicare coverage options side by side. Look at premiums, copays, drug coverage, star ratings, supplemental benefits, and provider networks. A Medicare insurance broker like C2C Health Insurance Solutions can help you evaluate Medicare Advantage, Medigap, and Prescription Drug Plans Part D to ensure your plan fits your needs.

Avoid Rushed Decisions

AEP lasts from October 15 to December 7, so you do not need to choose a new plan immediately. Take your time, review your budget, and consider how your health needs may change next year. Thoughtful Medicare consulting ensures you select coverage that truly works for you.

Questions to Ask a Licensed Medicare Agent

• Does my current plan still meet my health and budget needs?
• Are there Medicare Advantage or Medigap plans that may offer better value?
• How will my prescriptions be covered next year?
• Are my doctors and preferred hospitals still in-network?
• Do I need Dental and vision insurance added for next year?
• What do I need to know about retiree health insurance changes?

Talking through these questions with one of our licensed Medicare agents can help you feel confident in your plan choice for the year ahead.

If you would like Medicare help or personalized Medicare guidance, our team at C2C Health Insurance Solutions is here to support you through every step of AEP. Call (888) 814-9977 to speak with a licensed Medicare agent.