What is AEP?
AEP is the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period, which runs from October15 to December 7 every year. AEP is your opportunity to review and make changes to your coverage. Whether you’re already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan or are exploring your options for the first time, this is the time to make changes.
Any changes a Medicare beneficiary makes will take effect on January 1 of the following year.
What Can You Do During AEP?
During AEP, you can:
- Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan (with or without drug coverage)
- Change from one MA plan to another (with or without drug coverage)
- Drop your MA plan and return to Original Medicare
- Join, drop, or switch Medicare Part D (prescription drug or PDP) plans
Why Review Your Coverage during AEP?
Even if you’re happy with your current plan, it’s important to review:
- Changes in plan benefits or premiums – Every year benefits and premiums may change
- Network updates – Are your doctors still in-network?
- Formulary changes – Are your medications still covered?
- Cost-saving opportunities – Another plan may offer better value
Clear Spring Health makes it easy to compare options so you can find a plan that fits your lifestyle and budget.
Why Choose a Medicare Advantage Plan?
Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans cover everything Original Medicare does and often come with more benefits. Many Medicare Advantage plans include*
- Hospital and medical coverage
- Prescription drug coverage (MAPD)
- Extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, transportation, fitness programs, and more
- Care coordination and 24/7 nurse support
Don’t Miss the AEP Deadline
AEP ends December 7. If you don’t make a change by then, you may have to wait until the next enrollment period to adjust your coverage – unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP)
How to Prepare for AEP
Sometime in September your plan should send you an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC). Review these documents closely to understand what changes are being made and whether the plan will continue to meet your needs.
Medicare.gov releases its annual “Medicare & You” handbook on October1. Starting the same day, you’ll have access to the site’s Medicare Plan Finder where you can search current Medicare Plans to see how plans compare in your area.
How to Enroll or Make Changes during AEP
We’re here to help every step of the way.
Our licensed agents can help you:
- Compare plans
- Check doctor networks
- Confirm drug coverage
- Understand your benefits
We’ll make sure you have everything you need to make an informed choice with absolutely no pressure, no obligation.
*Benefits vary by plan.
Call (800) 627-9160 (TTY: 711)