The Window That Matters Most
AEP 2026 runs October 15 through December 7, and it’s the single most important window of the year for most Medicare beneficiaries — the main chance to switch Medicare Advantage plans, change Part D drug plans, or move between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, with changes taking effect January 1, 2027 (Plan Year 2027).
What You Can Do During AEP
- Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another
- Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan
- Switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare
- Join, switch, or drop a Part D prescription drug plan
What Changes Every Year — And Why That Matters
Premiums, formularies, provider networks, and extra benefits can all change annually for both Medicare Advantage and Part D plans. Your plan sends an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) letter before AEP begins, outlining what’s different for the coming year — reading it is the fastest way to know whether your current plan is still a good fit.
How to Approach the Review
Start with what you actually use: your doctors, your medications, and how often you access care. Check whether your providers are still in-network, whether your medications are still covered at a cost you’re comfortable with, and whether the total expected annual cost (not just the premium) still makes sense for your situation.
2026 Cost Figures Worth Knowing
Standard Part B premium: $202.90/month. Part B annual deductible: $283. Part D annual deductible: up to $615. Part D out-of-pocket cap: $2,100, after which covered drugs cost $0 for the rest of the year.
Timing Your Review
AEP gives you nearly two months, but starting in mid-October rather than waiting until early December gives you time to actually compare options rather than rushing a decision in the final days, when enrollment systems and agents alike see the heaviest volume.
After AEP Ends
Once AEP closes on December 7, most people are locked into their choice for the full plan year, aside from the more limited Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31) that allows one additional plan switch for those already in Medicare Advantage.
Have questions? Schedule a free review with Kayla Price, a licensed insurance agent at Price Services Group. Call 866-648-1578 or visit priceservicesgroup.com/schedule.
Price Services Group, LLC is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. NPN: 18530055 | Agency NPN: 20387435