Did you receive a “Medicare & You 2026” book in the mail? That’s your sign that it is time to review your Medicare plan, and ensure that it is the best one for you. Your time to do so is limited, however, so it is important that you act now.
I am already enrolled in Medicare. Why do I need to review my plan?
Your healthcare needs may have changed over the past year and you may now require or benefit from different or expanded coverage. There is one open enrollment period per year when Medicare plans may be changed. If you miss this window of opportunity you will be stuck with your former plan, so it is essential that you start exploring your options now.
Starting on October 1, 2025, you can visit Medicare.gov/plan-compare to see your various options. Start early, as comparing can be time consuming.
When can I make changes to my Medicare health or drug coverage?
Between October 15th and December 7th, 2025 you can join, switch, or drop a Medicare Advantage plan or Medicare drug plan, or switch to Original Medicare. If you have made a change, your new coverage will begin on January 1, 2026.
What if I change my mind about my Medicare Advantage plan in 2026. Can I change it?
You get one chance to make a change if you are in a Medicare Advantage program. From January 1 to March 31, 2026, you can switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan, or switch to Original Medicare (and get a Medicare drug plan). But remember, you can only do this once, so choose wisely.
What you can not do during this period is switch to a Medicare Advantage program from Original Medicare, switch Medicare drug plans, or add a drug plan to Original Medicare if you did not have one.
Considerations when making your choice:
When deciding between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, look carefully at coverage to ensure that it is sufficient for your needs. Some Medicare Advantage programs may appear to have many bells and whistles, but don’t provide as much coverage as Original Medicare. Use this time through December 7th to make a wise choice, that will work for your specific requirements.
If we can be of assistance to you, please reach out. We are only a phone call or e-mail away.
