Medicare Advantage Enrollment

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Quick answer

You can enroll in Medicare Advantage during your 7-month Initial Enrollment Period at 65, the Annual Election Period (October 15 to December 7), the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 to March 31), or a Special Enrollment Period after qualifying events like moving or losing coverage.

Timing is everything with Medicare Advantage. Here are the enrollment periods and deadlines you need to know.

The key Medicare Advantage enrollment periods

Four windows let you join or change a Medicare Advantage plan. Your Initial Enrollment Period spans the seven months around your 65th birthday and is your first chance to enroll. The Annual Election Period, October 15 to December 7, lets anyone join, switch, or drop a plan for the next year. The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period, January 1 to March 31, lets current members switch once or return to Original Medicare. Special Enrollment Periods open after qualifying life events. Missing your window usually means waiting until the next one, so call 1-800-MEDIGAP (1-800-633-4427) to confirm your exact dates.

Special Enrollment Periods explained

Beyond the standard windows, certain life events trigger a Special Enrollment Period that lets you enroll or switch outside the normal calendar. Common triggers include moving out of your plan's service area, losing employer or other creditable coverage, qualifying for Medicaid or Extra Help, or your plan leaving Medicare. Five-star plans also allow a special enrollment window once per year. Each event has its own timeframe, often 60 days, so acting quickly matters. If you've had a recent life change, a licensed advisor at 1-800-MEDIGAP can confirm whether you qualify and help you enroll before the window closes.

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Frequently asked questions

When can I enroll in Medicare Advantage?+

You can enroll during your Initial Enrollment Period at 65, the Annual Election Period (October 15 to December 7), the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 to March 31), or a Special Enrollment Period after a qualifying event. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to confirm which applies to you.

What is the deadline to enroll for 2026 coverage?+

For coverage starting January 1, 2026, the Annual Election Period runs October 15 to December 7, 2025. Changes made then take effect at the start of the year. If you miss it, you may have to wait for the next window unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

Can I change my Medicare Advantage plan after enrolling?+

Yes. The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 to March 31) lets current members switch plans once or return to Original Medicare. You can also change during the fall Annual Election Period. Special Enrollment Periods may apply after qualifying life events. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for help.

What happens if I miss my enrollment window?+

If you miss your enrollment window without a qualifying Special Enrollment Period, you generally must wait until the next Annual Election Period (October 15 to December 7) to join or change a plan. Delaying drug coverage may also trigger a late-enrollment penalty. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to check your options.

Do I automatically get enrolled in Medicare Advantage?+

No. Medicare Advantage enrollment is never automatic; you must actively choose and join a plan. If you do nothing at 65, you'll have Original Medicare. To add a Medicare Advantage plan, you must enroll during a valid election period. A 1-800-MEDIGAP advisor can walk you through it.

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