Medicare Annual Enrollment in Sarasota & Manatee — Oct 15 to Dec 7
Annual Enrollment is the yearly window when people with Medicare can change their health and drug coverage for next year. If your doctors, prescriptions, pharmacy or budget have changed — or your plan sent an Annual Notice of Change — this is a good time to review your coverage.
What you can change during Annual Enrollment
- Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another.
- Move from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan, or from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare.
- Join, switch or drop a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan.
Checklist to prepare for your review
- Your current doctors and specialists
- Your prescriptions and dosages
- Your preferred pharmacies
- Any travel plans for the coming year
- Your monthly budget for premiums and costs
Time left to make changes
Deadline: December 7, 2026 at 11:59 PM ET
Annual Enrollment FAQ
When is Medicare Annual Enrollment?
Annual Enrollment runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. Changes you make during this window generally take effect on January 1.
Do I have to do anything if I'm happy with my plan?
No. If you take no action, your current plan usually renews. Plans can change premiums, copays, drug lists and provider networks each year, so it helps to read your Annual Notice of Change before deciding.
Can I switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare?
Yes. During Annual Enrollment you can leave a Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare, and you can add a stand-alone Part D drug plan at the same time.
Can I change my Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan during Annual Enrollment?
Annual Enrollment does not apply to Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policies. You can apply to change a Medigap policy at other times, but in Florida the insurance company may use medical underwriting.
What happens if I miss the December 7 deadline?
You may have to wait until the next enrollment period unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. If you are in a Medicare Advantage plan, the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period from January 1 to March 31 allows one plan change.
Is there a cost to review my plan with Scott?
No. A plan review with Scott is a no cost consultation, and there is no obligation to enroll in any plan.