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Medicare Advantage plan checklist

Typically you have one chance per year to make changes to your Medicare coverage. This is known as the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period, and it runs from October 15th to December 7th each year.

This short checklist can help you prepare for the Annual Enrollment Period, even if you plan to keep your current Medicare plan.

Step 1: Know enrollment dates

The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period begins October 15th and ends December 7th.

Any plan changes you make during the Annual Enrollment Period will go into effect in January 2026.

Step 2: Learn about your plan options

Some of the plan changes you can make during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period include:

• Changing from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage.
• Changing from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare.
• Switching from one Medicare Advantage plan to another Medicare Advantage plan.
• Enrolling in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Medicare Part D).
• Switching from one Medicare Prescription Drug Plan to another Medicare Prescription Drug Plan.
• Disenrolling from a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan.

Step 3: Review your plan documents

If you’re already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, it’s important to go over your plan documents, such as the Annual Notice of Change (ANOC). The ANOC explains any plan changes that may go into effect the following year, including changes in benefits, costs or service areas.

Your insurance provider should send this document before the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period begins.

Step 4: Decide which plan benefits are most important to you

When comparing Medicare Advantage plans, consider asking the following questions:

1. Will my prescription medications be covered?
2. Is my preferred doctor in the plan’s network?
3. Does the plan offer any additional benefits?
4. Can I use doctors that aren’t in my network?
5. Can I afford the monthly payment?

Step 5: Compare your plan options

Simply Healthcare offers two types of Medicare Advantage plans: HMO plans and Special Needs Plans (SNPs).

Your plan benefits will vary depending on your location and the specific plan you choose.

Low-cost plans and $0 premium plans may be available in your area.¹

You can find a plan by entering your ZIP code below or by calling a licensed agent directly at 1-888-412-1103, TTY: 711, 24/7.