Medicare Open Enrollment 2026

Oct 15 to Dec 7, 2026: your window to switch and save. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP.

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Quick answer

Medicare's Annual Open Enrollment Period runs October 15 through December 7, 2026, with changes taking effect January 1, 2027. During this window you can join, switch, or drop Medicare Advantage and Part D drug plans. Review your coverage every year, as plans change.

The fall Open Enrollment window is your yearly chance to adjust Medicare coverage. Here are the 2026 dates and what you can do.

What are the 2026 Open Enrollment dates?

Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period, often called Open Enrollment, runs from October 15 to December 7, 2026. Any changes you make take effect January 1, 2027. This is the main yearly window for most Medicare changes. There is also a separate Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period from January 1 to March 31 each year, during which Medicare Advantage members can switch plans or return to Original Medicare. Marking these dates protects you from a year of coverage that no longer fits. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to review your plan before the deadline.

What can you change during Open Enrollment?

During the October 15 to December 7 window, you can switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan or back, change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another, join or drop a Part D prescription drug plan, or switch between Part D plans. Plans update their costs, drug lists, and networks every year, so coverage that worked this year may not next year. Importantly, switching MEDIGAP plans may require medical underwriting and is not tied to this window. A licensed agent at 1-800-MEDIGAP can compare your options for free.

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Frequently asked questions

When is Medicare Open Enrollment in 2026?+

Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period runs October 15 through December 7, 2026. Changes you make during this window take effect January 1, 2027. It is the primary time to adjust your Medicare Advantage or Part D coverage. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to review your plan.

What is the difference between Open Enrollment and Annual Enrollment?+

They are often used interchangeably for the October 15 to December 7 window. Separately, the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 to March 31) lets Advantage members switch plans or return to Original Medicare. A licensed agent at 1-800-MEDIGAP can explain which applies.

Can I change MEDIGAP plans during Open Enrollment?+

Not specifically. The fall Open Enrollment window applies to Medicare Advantage and Part D, not Medicare Supplement (MEDIGAP) plans. You can apply to change MEDIGAP plans any time, but outside your initial open enrollment you may face medical underwriting. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to explore your options.

What happens if I do nothing during Open Enrollment?+

If you take no action, your current Medicare Advantage or Part D plan generally renews automatically with its updated costs and rules for the new year. Because plans change yearly, doing nothing can mean higher costs or lost drug coverage. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to review before December 7.

Is Open Enrollment when I first sign up for Medicare?+

No. Your first sign-up happens during your Initial Enrollment Period around your 65th birthday. The fall Open Enrollment window is for existing beneficiaries to change plans each year. If you are new to Medicare, call 1-800-MEDIGAP to confirm your initial deadline.

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