OOPS! I missed the Medicare Enrollment Period
- Ben Murray
- Dec 10, 2024
- 3 min read
What to Do If You Missed Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
Missing Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), which ends on December 7, can feel stressful, but there are still options to make changes to your Medicare plan if needed. Here’s what you need to know about the next opportunities to adjust your coverage, who qualifies for these periods, and helpful tips to navigate the process.
Tips for Navigating Changes After AEP:
Know Your Deadlines: Mark the dates for the MA-OEP or SEP eligibility to avoid missing additional opportunities to make changes.
Review Your Current Plan: Check your plan’s details to understand coverage gaps or cost concerns.
Talk to an Expert: An independent insurance agent or Medicare specialist can guide you through available options and help you select the best plan.
Use Medicare’s Plan Finder Tool: This tool helps compare plans in your area, including benefits, costs, and star ratings.
Be Proactive: Even if you missed this year’s AEP, start preparing for the next one to ensure you choose the best coverage moving forward.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA-OEP): January 1 - March 31
If you’re already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA-OEP) is your next chance to make changes.
Enrollment Window
When: January 1 through March 31.
Who Can Use It: Only beneficiaries currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan.
What You Can Do:
Switch to another Medicare Advantage plan (with or without drug coverage).
Drop your Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare.
Join a stand-alone Medicare drug plan if you return to Original Medicare.
Coverage Starting Point
Changes made during this period will take effect on the first day of the month after your plan processes your request. For example, if you make changes in January, your new plan will likely begin on February 1.
Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs)
If you don’t qualify for the MA-OEP, you may still be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). SEPs are triggered by specific life events, such as:
Moving out of your plan’s service area.
Losing other coverage, like employer-provided insurance.
Becoming eligible for Medicaid or Extra Help with prescription drugs.
Qualifying for a 5-star Medicare Advantage or drug plan.
Tip: If you qualify for an SEP, contact Medicare or your plan provider as soon as possible to understand your options.
When You Can’t Change Plans
For beneficiaries who missed the AEP and don’t qualify for either the MA-OEP or an SEP, your current plan will remain in effect for the rest of the year. However:
You can still review and plan for the next AEP (October 15 - December 7).
Use this time to evaluate how well your current plan meets your needs and research better options for the future.
Planning Ahead
Missing the AEP isn’t the end of the road. With options like the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period and Special Enrollment Periods, you may still have opportunities to adjust your coverage to fit your needs. If changes aren’t possible right now, use this time to evaluate your current plan and prepare for future enrollment opportunities.
Remember, the key to navigating Medicare is staying informed and proactive! If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out
If you’d like me to help you or someone you care about figure out the best Medicare route, please reach out to me TODAY! -> CONTACT BEN <-
