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Oct. 15, 2026, Arlington, Virginia—Medicare Open Enrollment for 2027 coverage runs from today through Dec. 7, and the National Council on Aging (NCOA) encourages everyone with Medicare to take three important steps to make sure they’re getting the most from their health care coverage. 

Review Your Plan 

“Step one is to review your Medicare plan closely to make sure your doctors and pharmacies are still in network and that your plan continues to cover the medications and services you need,” said Ryan Ramsey, NCOA Associate Director of Health Coverage and Benefits.  

“Start by reading your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC), which outlines any changes to your costs, coverage, provider networks, or prescription drug benefits for next year. Even if you’re satisfied with your current coverage, it’s important to compare your plan with other available options using Medicare.gov during Open Enrollment,” Ramsey said. “Plans can change from year to year, and even small changes in premiums, drug coverage, provider networks, or out-of-pocket costs can make a significant difference. Taking the time to review and compare coverage could help you save money, access additional benefits, or find a plan that better meets your health care needs.” 

According to KFF, nearly 7 in 10 (69%) Medicare beneficiaries don’t compare their coverage options during Open Enrollment, which means many may be paying more than they need to. For those who do switch plans during Open Enrollment, coverage starts on Jan. 1, 2027.  

Take a BenefitsCheckUp 

“Step two is to see if you’re eligible for programs that can help you pay for the costs of Medicare,” Ramsey said. “The Medicare Savings Programs and Medicare Part D Low-Income Subsidy can make it easier for people with lower incomes to afford their copays and premiums.”  

NCOA’s free and confidential website BenefitsCheckUp.org offers a one-stop shop for checking if you may be eligible and getting steps on how to apply. Single beneficiaries with an income of $2,015 per month and couples with an income of $2,725 per month should visit BenefitsCheckUp.org to see if they are eligible for these programs: 

• Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) help eligible beneficiaries pay for Medicare premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance. NCOA’s Benefits Participation Map shows that fewer than half (49%) of eligible individuals are enrolled in the program, meaning they are missing out on up to $203 a month. 
• The Medicare Part D Low-Income Subsidy (LIS, or Extra Help) can save eligible beneficiaries an average of $475 per month on prescriptions. Many Medicare beneficiaries who qualify for Extra Help are not enrolled and may be missing out on substantial savings on prescription drug costs. Low enrollment isn’t about lack of need. Complex applications, asset tests, and limited awareness keep billions of dollars from reaching the people these programs were designed to help. 

Watch for Scams 

“Step three is to be on the lookout for scams, as Medicare Open Enrollment is a prime time for fraudsters,” Ramsey said. “Using AI and fake ads on social media, criminals pretend to be from Medicare, and they trick beneficiaries into sharing their Medicare or Social Security number to commit identity theft.” 

NCOA offers 5 Warning Signs of a Medicare Scam—and How to Protect Yourself, which details red flags such as pressure to switch plans and threats to cancel your coverage. The resource also lists steps people can take if they think they have been targeted, including contacting the Senior Medicare Patrol Resource Center. 

Where to Get Help 

• Reviewing Your Plan: People on Medicare can get free help reviewing their plan by contacting their local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). SHIPs are in every state, and they offer in-depth and objective insurance counseling to Medicare-eligible individuals, their families, and caregivers.
• Taking a BenefitsCheckUp: Individuals can check if they may be eligible for Medicare low-income programs by using NCOA’s free BenefitsCheckUp.org website or calling NCOA’s toll-free helpline at 1-800-794-6559 Monday–Friday, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET. 
• Reporting Scams: Those who think they have been scammed should contact the Senior Medicare Patrol Resource Center by calling 1-877-808-2468 or using their online contact form. 

About NCOA  
The National Council on Aging (NCOA) is the national voice for every person’s right to age well. Working with thousands of national and local partners, we provide resources, best practices, and advocacy to create the conditions for everyone to age with health and economic well-being. Founded in 1950, we are the oldest national organization focused on older adults. Learn more at www.ncoa.org and @NCOAging.