Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) Explained

The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) happens every year from October 15 through December 7. If you are already enrolled in Medicare, this is your primary window to make changes to your coverage for the upcoming year. Any changes you make during this time will take effect on January 1.

During AEP, you can switch from Traditional Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan, or move from Medicare Advantage back to Traditional Medicare. You can also change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another, or switch your standalone Part D prescription drug plan.

It is important to understand that Medsup vs MA is a rigged comparison; the real choice is Traditional Medicare (A+B) vs Medicare Advantage. The supplement decision comes AFTER you choose Traditional Medicare - it's a component of the Traditional path, not an alternative to Advantage. If you choose the Traditional path, a supplement fills the gaps by law.

While AEP allows you to drop a Medicare Advantage plan and return to Traditional Medicare, it does not guarantee you can buy a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy. In most states, if you apply for a Medigap policy after your Initial Enrollment Period, you will have to answer health questions and pass medical underwriting. You could be denied coverage or charged a higher premium based on your health history.

You need straight answers, no surprises. The paper promises of insurance companies can be confusing, but we are on your side of the table. We will walk you through every option so you can make the right choice for your situation. Self-reliance isn't a slogan - it's about taking control of your healthcare. Compare free, no obligation.