It's Time to Prepare for Medicare Annual Enrollment

September 2, 2026

Plan Ahead for the Best Results


As we head into fall, it's time to think about an important Medicare milestone: the Annual Enrollment Period. If you're on Medicare, this is your chance to review your coverage and make changes if your needs have shifted, or if there will be changes to your current plan that you don’t like.



Key Dates for Annual Enrollment in 2026


October 1, 2026: Plan details for 2027 go live. You can start comparing Medicare Advantage (Part C) and prescription drug (Part D) options in your area, though you can't make changes yet.


October 15 – December 7, 2026: Enrollment is officially open. This is when you can:


  • Join a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan
  • Switch to a different plan
  • Drop coverage or switch back to Original Medicare


January 1, 2027: Any changes you made take effect. Make sure you review your new plan documents so you understand your coverage and costs.



What About Medigap?


If you have a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, it works differently. The rules for joining or switching a Medigap plan are more complicated than those for Medicare Advantage and Part D plans. Reach out to us to discuss your options.



How to Get Ready Now


Between now and October, set aside some time to prepare.


  • Gather recent medical bills and receipts
  • Make or update your complete list of current medications and doses
  • List the doctors and hospitals you have used most over the past year
  • Check your current plan's summary of coverage
  • Watch for your Annual Notice of Changes (ANOC) from your health insurance company (usually arrives in late September)—this tells you what's changing in your coverage, costs, provider and pharmacy network, and benefits for 2027
  • Schedule a review session with our team starting October 1—slots fill up fast


The more organized you are, the easier it will be to make confident choices.



Let's Plan Ahead


Whether you want to stick with what you have or explore new options, we can help you understand your current plan, see what else is available, and make sure your doctors and prescriptions and other benefits are covered. Schedule now to meet with us starting October 1st.


If you have questions now about the process and what to expect, reach out anytime. We're here to help make the process as straightforward and successful as possible.

Couple reviewing financial paperwork with a calculator and phone at a table
August 26, 2026
Feel behind on retirement savings? You have more tools than you think, including bigger catch-up contribution limits in 2026. Here's where to start.
Masked older man receiving care from a masked healthcare worker at home
August 19, 2026
A Chronic Condition Special Needs Plan (C-SNP) is a Medicare Advantage plan built around conditions like diabetes or heart failure. See how it works.
Woman having a comprehensive eye exam with an ophthalmic slit lamp device
August 12, 2026
A comprehensive eye exam can reveal early signs of serious health conditions. Learn how vision insurance helps cover exams, glasses, and contact lenses.
Group of older adults laughing and chatting over coffee at a park picnic table
August 7, 2026
Research on aging and happiness keeps turning up the same surprising pattern. Here's what the science actually shows, and how to apply it at any age.
Two people sit chatting on a dock beside a white sailboat at sunset
By Dawn Horne August 1, 2026
Your permanent life insurance policy can build cash value, provide tax-friendly income, and offer easy access to funds while you're still alive. Here's how.
Woman cuddling a small white dog on a couch indoors
By Dawn Horne July 27, 2026
Research suggests dogs can support your mental wellbeing — but ownership comes with real financial responsibility. Learn why pet insurance is worth considering.
Smiling person in a straw hat outdoors, raising a hand beside a leafy background
By Dawn Horne July 24, 2026
Learn what Medicare covers for skin cancer screenings, dermatologist visits, biopsies, and treatment, plus tips for prevention and early detection.
Two people reviewing papers at a table, one using a phone and the other reading a document.
By Dawn Horne July 22, 2026
Struggling with Medicare costs? Learn about Medicare Savings Programs, Extra Help, and other programs that can lower your premiums and drug costs in 2026.
Woman writing on paper at a dining table beside a laptop in a bright home office
May 28, 2026
Turning 73 soon? Learn when RMDs start, how they’re calculated, key deadlines, and strategies to avoid penalties and manage taxes in retirement.
Hands with red nail polish holding many white tablets on a white surface
May 25, 2026
Learn how the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan could help you spread prescription costs into interest-free monthly payments and reduce upfront pharmacy expenses.
Show More