The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) runs from October 15 through December 7, 2025, giving seniors just seven weeks to make crucial healthcare decisions for the coming year. This annual window is your only opportunity to switch Medicare Advantage and Part D plans without qualifying events, making preparation essential.
Review Your Current Coverage
Start by examining your 2025 Medicare Summary of Benefits and gather all prescription bottles. Medicare Advantage and Part D prescription plans change their coverage and costs annually. A medication that cost $10 this year might jump to $50 in 2026, or worse, be dropped entirely from your plan’s formulary.
Compare All Available Options
Use Medicare’s Plan Finder tool at Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE to compare plans in your area. Don’t just look at monthly premiums – examine deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums. A plan with a higher premium might actually save you hundreds if you take expensive medications or need frequent medical care.
Check Provider Networks
Confirm your doctors, specialists, and preferred hospitals remain in-network for any plan you’re considering. Medicare Advantage plans often have more restrictive networks than Original Medicare. If you’re attached to specific providers, this could be your most important factor.
Consider Your Changing Health Needs
Your health status today might differ significantly from when you first chose your plan. Seniors developing chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease should prioritize plans with strong specialty care networks and lower prescription costs for their specific medications.
Don’t Ignore Supplemental Benefits
Many 2026 Medicare Advantage plans now include vision, dental, hearing aids, and even grocery allowances. While these extras shouldn’t be your primary deciding factor, they can provide significant value for seniors on fixed incomes.
Seek Professional Help
New Jersey’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) offers free, unbiased counseling. Local senior centers often host Medicare enrollment events throughout October and November.
Act Before December 7
Changes made during Open Enrollment take effect January 1, 2026. Missing this deadline means you’re locked into your current plan for another year, regardless of premium increases or coverage changes. Mark your calendar now and start comparing options in early October.
Your healthcare needs and budget deserve this annual attention – seven weeks of research can save thousands in 2026.