Medicare Annual Open Enrollment Period begins October 15

Medicare Annual Open Enrollment Period Medicare Advantage prescription drug coverage healthcare premiums Medicare Part A and B

The Medicare Annual Open Enrollment Period (AEP) runs from October 15 through December 7, providing a window for beneficiaries to evaluate, switch, join, or drop Medicare Advantage or Part D prescription drug plans for the upcoming calendar year. Changes made during this period take effect on January 1.

Experts advise beneficiaries to prepare for potential premium increases, higher deductible caps, and benefit reductions. While the core Medicare Parts A and B are federally managed, the AEP is a critical time to compare private coverage options. For those turning 65, the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) serves as the first opportunity to join Original Medicare, but once enrolled, individuals must follow the annual calendar-based timelines.

According to the 2026 Medicare Trustees Report from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), projected fee changes include an increase in the inpatient hospital deductible to $1,788. Other projected increases include hospital coinsurance for days 61–90 and skilled nursing facility coinsurance.