Medicare Annual Election Period (AEP):
What is the “Annual election period” or AEP?
This is the period of time when you can make certain changes to your Medicare Advantage and Part D Plans.
When does it take place?
Annually, from October 15 – December 7. Your changes take effect on January 1 of the following year.
What You Can Do During AEP?
From October 15 to December 7, you can:
- Join or drop your Medicare Advantage Plan
- Join or drop your Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Medicare Part D)
- Switch from your Medicare Advantage Plan to another Medicare Advantage Plan
You can change your plan as many times as you’d like during the AEP. The last choice you enter will be your policy effective on January 1.
How can i prepare for AEP?
Assess your needs: Think back over the last year and ask yourself if you’ve been happy with your current coverage. Is a change right for you?
Consider your options: Coverage and pricing are different for each plan and can change from year to year. For example, most Medicare Advantage Plans include prescription drug coverage (MAPD), but what you’ll pay for your prescriptions will vary by plan.
Get help – Depending on where you live, there may be dozens of plans to choose from. Schedule an appointment with an AHIC agent and let us help you find the right plan for your needs and budget.