You can usually switch Medicare plans during specific enrollment periods. The most common are the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP) and Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs). Understanding which enrollment period applies to you can help you make coverage changes at the right time.
Key takeaways
- The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) runs October 15 through December 1 and is the most common window to compare and switch Medicare plans.
- The Open Enrollment Period (OEP) runs January 1 through March 31 and lets current Medicare Advantage members make one plan change.
- A Special Enrollment Period (SEP) lets you make coverage changes outside these windows if you experience a qualifying event, such as moving or losing other coverage.
- Coverage changes made during AEP take effect January 1. Changes made during OEP take effect the first of the month after you enroll.
Medicare enrollment periods at a glance
| Enrollment period | When it happens | Who it is for | What you may be able to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) | Oct. 15–Dec. 7 each year | People with Medicare who want to review or change coverage for the next year | Switch Medicare Advantage plans, switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage, return to Original Medicare, or join, switch or drop Part D prescription drug coverage |
| Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP) | Jan. 1–March 31 each year | People already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan | Make one change to another Medicare Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare; if returning to Original Medicare, you may be able to join a Part D plan |
| Special Enrollment Period (SEP) | Varies by qualifying event | People who experience certain qualifying situations | Change coverage outside the standard enrollment windows, depending on the event and timing |