What Is Medicare AEP? What the Annual Enrollment Period Is and How to Use It

What Is the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)?

Most people think of Medicare enrollment in terms of the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) — also known as the Annual Election Period.

AEP runs from October 15 to December 7 every year (ending on Pearl Harbor Day). During this time, Medicare beneficiaries can review their current plans and make changes for the upcoming calendar year.

Who Can Use AEP?

AEP is for people who already have Medicare coverage and want to:

• Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another

• Switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage

• Switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare

• Enroll in, drop, or switch Part D prescription drug plans

Note: AEP is not for people new to Medicare. New enrollees must use their Initial Enrollment Period (IEP).

What Happens If You Don’t Make Changes During AEP?

If you’re happy with your current Medicare Advantage or Part D plan, you don’t need to do anything. Your plan will automatically renew into the next year’s version.

Why AEP Is the Most Flexible Medicare Enrollment Period

AEP gives you the widest range of options for switching or starting Medicare plans. It’s the ideal time to:

• Compare costs, coverage, and benefits

• Adjust your plan based on new healthcare needs

• Explore newly available plans in your ZIP code

Explore more Medicare Supplement options and comparisons:

• Can I Change Medicare Advantage Plans Anytime? 
• Medicare Supplement Enrollment Period 
• Medicare Late Enrollment Penalty: Avoid Costly Mistakes & Save