The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) runs October 15 through December 7 every year. Any changes you make take effect January 1. If you’re on Medicare and haven’t reviewed your coverage lately, this is the window you can’t afford to miss.
What Can You Change During AEP?
- Switch from Original Medicare (Parts A & B) to a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan
- Switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare
- Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another
- Join, switch, or drop a Part D prescription drug plan
What You Cannot Change During AEP
AEP does not allow you to change Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans in most states without medical underwriting. Medigap changes are typically handled at initial enrollment or through a Special Enrollment Period.
Key AEP 2027 Deadlines
| Date | What Happens |
|---|---|
| October 15 | AEP opens — you can begin making changes |
| December 7 | AEP closes — last day to enroll or switch plans |
| January 1 | New coverage begins |
Why You Should Review Every Year — Even If You’re Happy
Plans change annually. Premiums go up, formularies shift, networks narrow. A plan that was perfect last year may cost you significantly more in 2027. An annual review with a licensed broker costs you nothing and can save hundreds.
Ready to Review Your 2027 Medicare Options?
Complete your Scope of Appointment online and I’ll personally reach out to walk you through every option — no pressure, no obligation.
Submit Your SOA & Get a Free Review →
Paul Z. Olah · Licensed Medicare Broker · NPN 20795999 · 856-880-6340
How a Scope of Appointment (SOA) Works
Before a Medicare broker can discuss plan specifics with you, federal law requires a Scope of Appointment. It simply defines what topics we’ll cover — it doesn’t commit you to anything. You can complete yours in under 2 minutes using the link above.
AEP vs. Other Medicare Enrollment Periods
- AEP (Oct 15 – Dec 7): Annual review window for all Medicare enrollees
- Medicare Advantage OEP (Jan 1 – Mar 31): One switch per year for MA enrollees only
- Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): 7-month window around your 65th birthday
- Special Enrollment Period (SEP): Triggered by life events like losing employer coverage
Questions about your options? Book a free consultation or explore plan types on our site.