While all Medicare enrollees can make changes during the regular Open Enrollment Period (Oct. 15–Dec. 7), people already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan (also known as Medicare Part C) get another chance to modify their coverage each year. This is called the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period, which runs from Jan. 1 through March 31 each year. 

If you’re already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can use the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period to switch to another Medicare Advantage plan. You can also return to original Medicare and join a separate Part D drug plan, if needed. 

Since you can make only one change during this period, you’ll want to carefully review your Medicare plan costs, provider networks, drug coverage, and benefits every year.

Snapshot: Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period

When is the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period?

Let’s look at the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period’s two timeframes: annual and individual.

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 Part A and B 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. 

“Think of the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period as a second chance if your plan isn’t working for you,” said Ryan Ramsey, NCOA Associate Director of Health Coverage and Benefits. “But choose wisely. Before making a change, take the time to compare things like provider networks, drug formularies, coverage rules, extra benefits, and total out-of-pocket costs. That way, you don’t trade one set of problems for another.”

Note: If you joined Medicare Advantage when you first became eligible for Medicare, you also have a 12-month “trial period” to change your mind. During that time, you can return to original Medicare and buy a Medigap policy without being denied or charged more because of a pre-existing condition. This is a one-time opportunity.

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.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

How is Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment different from fall Open Enrollment?

Medicare Open Enrollment runs in the fall, from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7. It lets anyone with Medicare make a wider range of health and drug plan changes. On the other hand, Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment runs from Jan. 1 through March 31. This period applies only to people already enrolled in Medicare Advantage, and allows just one change. Learn more.

Can I switch from Medicare Advantage to original Medicare?

Yes. During Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment, you can disenroll from your Medicare Advantage plan and return to original Medicare. Your new coverage usually starts on the first day of the month after your request is received.

Can I add a Part D plan if I return to original Medicare?

Yes. If you leave Medicare Advantage and return to original Medicare during this period, you can join a standalone Part D prescription drug plan.

What happens if I miss the March 31 deadline?

If you miss the deadline to make changes, you typically have to wait until fall Medicare Open Enrollment to change your coverage, unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. Fall Medicare enrollment changes take effect Jan. 1 of the following year.

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 can also contact 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.