When Is Medicare Annual Enrollment 2026?
Quick Answer: Medicare Annual Enrollment 2026 runs from October 15 through December 7, 2026. Changes made during this period are generally effective January 1, 2027, as long as the plan receives the enrollment request by December 7. More information here.
What Are the Medicare Annual Enrollment Dates for 2026?
The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period for 2026 is:
October 15 – December 7, 2026
This is the annual period when people with Medicare can make certain changes to their Medicare health and prescription drug coverage for the upcoming year. More information here.
Key Medicare AEP Dates
October 1, 2026: Start comparing your current coverage with 2027 options
October 15, 2026: Medicare Annual Enrollment begins
December 7, 2026: Annual Enrollment ends
January 1, 2027: New coverage generally begins
Medicare's 2026 handbook specifically identifies October 1 as the time to begin comparing current coverage with 2027 options.
What Can I Do During Annual Enrollment?
Depending on your current coverage, you may be able to:
Join a Medicare Advantage plan
Change Medicare Advantage plans
Drop Medicare Advantage
Join or change a Medicare prescription drug plan
Switch between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage
Do I Have to Change My Plan?
No.
If your current plan continues to be offered and you determine that it still meets your needs, you can generally keep it. However, plans can change costs, benefits, providers and pharmacies from one year to the next.
That's why Annual Enrollment is a good time to review your coverage, even if you ultimately decide not to change it.
What Happens After December 7?
For most people, December 7 is the deadline for making changes to Medicare coverage for the following year.
However, other Medicare enrollment periods may apply in certain circumstances, including Special Enrollment Periods. Eligibility depends on your individual situation.
Need Help Before December 7?
If you're reviewing your Medicare coverage in Missouri, Mesplay Insurance Services provides local Medicare guidance for residents in St. Charles County, St. Louis County and surrounding communities.
