If you are one of the approximately 67 million Americans over the age of 65 who receive health coverage through Medicareopen enrollment is now in effect and it’s the best time of year to make changes to your coverage. However, with a 2021 Open Enrollment Study finding that 69% of respondents didn’t review their Medicare source during this year’s open enrollment period, chances are you don’t have a plan ready for the changes you want.
The open enrollment period runs at the end of each year, offering Medicare beneficiaries the most flexibility to change their plans regardless of their current circumstances. This period lasts just under two months, and any changes you make during it will take effect in the new year.
Read about the details you need to know about making changes to your Medicare plan, including when open enrollment ends. For more information about Medicare, find out if you must sign up while you are still working and see how much have premiums increased this year.
When is Medicare open enrollment?
This year’s annual open enrollment period began on Tuesday, October 15th and runs through Saturday, December 7th. Any changes you make to your coverage during this time will take effect on January 1, 2025.
Who is eligible for Medicare Open Enrollment?
This year-end open enrollment period is open to anyone who currently has Medicare, either through an original Medicare plan or a private Medicare Advantage plan. You can also use this period if for some reason you don’t currently have a Medicare plan but are eligible for one.
The initial enrollment period for Medicare begins three months before you turn 65 and continues three months after the month you turn 65. If you miss this window, you will need to use times like this open enrollment period to join.
How can you sign up or change a Medicare plan during open enrollment?
To help with the process of actually reviewing your available plans, Medicare.gov functions a Compare plans in your area page. This tool will allow you to select the year you want coverage for — 2025. in the case of this open enrollment period — and enter your zip code to see what plans are available to you in your area.
After you’ve compared and reviewed your options and decided on a plan that fits your needs, Medicare.gov has outlined three methods by which you can enroll in the plan:
- If you use Medicare’s online search feature, you can select Enrollment for the plan you want.
- You can also contact the company offering this plan directly by phone or by mailing a paper form. If you’re looking to get a Medicare Advantage plan, you may also be able to contact the provider or its enrollment centers directly.
- Or you can call 1-800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227) or 877-486-2048 for those using teletypes to go through the enrollment process over the phone.
For more, here’s when folks you will be able to sign up for health insurance under the Affordable Care Act.
