Every October, Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period gives you a chance to look at your coverage with fresh eyes. This year’s AEP runs October 15 through December 7, 2026, and any changes you make take effect January 1, 2027. Here’s what’s actually different this time around, without the jargon.
A Few Real Changes Behind the Scenes
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) finalized new rules for Medicare Advantage and Part D plans this spring, with several provisions—including new marketing and communications requirements—taking effect October 1, 2026, just before AEP opens. In practice, this means some of the plan materials, calls, and advertising you see this fall may look or sound a little different than in past years, as CMS eased some documentation requirements while adding new safeguards around program integrity.
On the payment side, CMS is increasing what it pays Medicare Advantage plans by roughly two and a half percent for 2027, closer to five percent once expected changes in enrollee risk scores are factored in. That funding shift is one of the reasons plan benefits, provider networks, and premiums can look different from one year to the next, even if you don’t touch a thing.
Your Fall Timeline at a Glance
Mid-to-Late September
CMS releases the full list of 2027 plan premiums and details.
Late September
You should receive an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) from your current Medicare Advantage or Part D plan. Read it closely — it spells out exactly what’s changing in your cost, coverage, and network for next year.
October 15 – December 7
AEP is open. You can switch Medicare Advantage plans, move between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, or change your Part D drug plan.
January 1, 2027
Any changes you made take effect.
What You Can Actually Change During AEP
– Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan, or vice versa
– Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another
– Join, switch, or drop a Part D prescription drug plan
One thing AEP does not cover: Medigap (Medicare Supplement) changes. Those follow separate rules year-round, so if you’re thinking about adjusting a Supplement plan, that’s a conversation worth having outside the AEP window too.
Why This Year Is Worth a Second Look
Even if your current plan feels fine, costs, drug formularies, and provider networks can shift every single year — sometimes significantly. The only way to know whether your plan is still your best option is to compare it against what’s newly available for 2027.
How Burke Insurance Group Can Help
We’ll walk through your ANOC letter, compare your current plan with other options from carriers we work with, and help you make a confident decision before the December 7 deadline—at no cost to you. Reach out anytime before AEP closes to schedule your free consultation.
We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.
