Understanding Medicare Enrollment Periods: Your Guide to Choosing the Right Plan
Published: July 2, 2025 | Last updated: October 23, 2026
In short: There are three main times to change Medicare coverage. The Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7) is when anyone with Medicare can switch plans for the next year. The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31) lets people already in a Medicare Advantage plan make one change. Special Enrollment Periods let you make changes after certain life events, like moving or losing employer coverage.
Navigating Medicare can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to knowing when and how to enroll in or change your coverage plan. At Lourie Life & Health, we’re here to help simplify the process for you!
What Are the Medicare Enrollment Periods?
- Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): The AEP runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. This is the time when you can review and make changes to your Medicare coverage for the upcoming year, so you can plan to get the coverage you deserve.
- Open Enrollment Period (OEP): The OEP runs from January 1 to March 31 and is also available to people who are already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan. You can decide to switch between Medicare Advantage plans or return to Original Medicare.
- Special Enrollment Period (SEP): If you have special circumstances, such as moving or losing employer coverage, you might qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). This allows you to make changes to your Medicare plan outside the usual enrollment windows.
What Happens If I Miss a Medicare Enrollment Deadline?
Understanding these enrollment periods is essential to making sure you don’t miss your chance to get the right coverage. If you miss a deadline, you may have to wait until the next enrollment period or face penalties.
Let Us Help You Navigate Medicare
At Lourie Life & Health, we’re committed to helping you make informed decisions about your Medicare coverage. Call us today at (803) 256-2067 to speak with one of our Medicare Account Managers and get personalized assistance with your options.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between AEP and OEP?
The Annual Enrollment Period (Oct. 15 – Dec. 7) is open to everyone with Medicare. The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (Jan. 1 – Mar. 31) is only for people already in a Medicare Advantage plan, and it allows one change.When do changes made during Annual Enrollment take effect?
January 1 of the following year.
What counts as a Special Enrollment Period?
Common examples include moving to a new area, losing employer or Medicaid coverage, or your plan leaving your area. An agent can tell you whether your situation qualifies.
Do I have to change my plan every year?
No. If your plan is still available and still meets your needs, it will usually renew automatically. It's still smart to review your Annual Notice of Change each fall.
What is the General Enrollment Period?
If you missed signing up for Part A or Part B when you were first eligible, you can sign up January 1 – March 31. Late penalties may apply.
Does it cost anything to get help during enrollment?
No. Lourie Life & Health's service is at no cost to you.
Not sure which enrollment period applies to you? Call Lourie Life & Health and speak to a local South Carolina Medicare agent at (803) 256-2067 (TTY 711). We'll make sure you don't miss a deadline.
Want the full picture? Download our free Medicare Guidebook.