Should I switch Medicare plans? Is it too late to change my coverage? If you have Medicare, these are questions you may find yourself wondering.

It's common for your health needs and budgets to change from year to year. That's why you should important to review your Medicare plan annually to ensure the coverages still meet your needs. If not, it may be time for a change.

When can I make changes to my Medicare plan?

While all Medicare enrollees can make changes during the regular Open Enrollment Period (Oct. 15–Dec. 7), people who are already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan (also known as Medicare Part C), get another chance to modify their coverage each year. They also get a one-time window of opportunity to make changes after initially joining Medicare.

So, when exactly can you make changes to your Medicare Advantage plan? Let’s look at the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period’s two timeframes: annual and individual.

When is the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period?

Annual: The annual Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period runs Jan. 1–March 31. If you are already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan on Jan. 1, this timeframe gives you an extra three-month window of time to consider your options and make changes.

Individual: If you’re new to Medicare and have Medicare Part A and Part B, and you're also enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan during your initial coverage election period, you can also participate in an individual Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period. You have a three-month period from the start of your coverage during which you can switch plans.

Changes made during either the annual or individual Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period will take effect the month after you make your change request. For example, if you switch to a new Medicare Advantage plan on Jan. 15, your new coverage will take effect on Feb. 1.

What changes can I make during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period?

Both the annual and individual Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period allow Medicare beneficiaries already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan a one-time election to either:

• Switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan, OR
• Switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to original Medicare with or without a Part D prescription drug plan.

Note: This enrollment period does not allow for Part D changes for people enrolled in original Medicare.

Where can I get trusted Medicare advice?

There’s a lot to consider when choosing a plan, but you don’t have to do it alone. Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to talk with a customer support representative about your Medicare questions and concerns or visit the Medicare.gov website to start a live chat. TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048. The Medicare Support Hotline is available 24/7, except for some federal holidays.

You may also consider contacting your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). They will connect you with a counselor who will provide free, unbiased guidance on choosing the right plan based on your personal health needs and budget. Ready to get started? Find your SHIP today.