You must wait until an enrollment period starts to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan. Therefore, if you are planning to purchase a Medicare Advantage plan, you should know when the different Enrollment periods begin and end.
The Annual Enrollment Period is one period that can be used to join a Medicare Advantage plan. In the following sections, we will explain everything you need to know about joining an Advantage plan during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period.
What Is The Annual Enrollment Period?
The Annual Enrollment Period, which is sometimes called the Medicare Annual Election Period, is a specific enrollment period that begins in the Fall. The period starts on October 15 and ends on December 7. During this time, Medicare beneficiaries can make a variety of changes to their current Medicare coverage.
Please note that if you have not already enrolled in a Medicare plan, you will not be able to do so during this period.
Before Annual Enrollment Starts
In the fall of each year, insurance companies release information about their plans’ benefits for the following year. This information may include details about premium costs, prescription drug coverage, and more. During this time, Medicare beneficiaries can compare plans and start making their decision on which plan to enroll in.
What Can You Do During Medicare Annual Enrollment?
During Medicare Annual Enrollment, you can make changes to a Medicare Advantage plan, Cost Plan, or Part D prescription drug plan. Multiple changes to your plan can be made in the same year. Here are some possible changes you can make during Annual Enrollment:
- Drop your Medicare Advantage plan to return to Original Medicare
- Move from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage
- Switch Medicare Advantage plans
- Choose a new Part D prescription drug plan
- Add a new Part D prescription drug plan
- Cancel your Part D prescription drug plan
Keep in mind that if you cancel your Part D plan and don’t replace it, you may be hit with a late-enrollment penalty when you try to enroll later.
Can You Enroll In Medicare During Annual Enrollment?
If you don’t already have Medicare coverage, you cannot join a Medicare Advantage plan during Annual Enrollment. Though, Medicare beneficiaries who are already enrolled in Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage can switch plans during this enrollment period.
Find The Perfect Medicare Advantage Plan
Whether you need to change Medicare Advantage plans or switch from Original Medicare, we can help you find a plan that works for you. Just contact The Medicare Detectives now to get started with a free quote on qualifying coverage in your area.
