Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment: January 1 – March 31

Who can use this window

The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period is only for people who are already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan. If you have Original Medicare, this window does not give you a new chance to join a Medicare Advantage plan or a Part D plan.

People who are new to Medicare and join a Medicare Advantage plan during their Initial Enrollment Period can also make one change within their first 3 months of having Medicare.

What you can change

• Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another, with or without drug coverage.
• Drop your Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare.
• If you return to Original Medicare, join a stand-alone Part D drug plan at the same time.

What you can't change

• You can make only one change during the window.
• You can't switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage.
• You can't join a Part D plan if you have Original Medicare and are not leaving a Medicare Advantage plan.
• You can't switch from one stand-alone Part D plan to another if you have Original Medicare.

When changes take effect

Your new coverage generally starts the first day of the month after the plan receives your request.

If you return to Original Medicare and want a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy, the insurance company may be able to review your health history, depending on your situation.