Every year from October 15 to December 7, the Medicare enrollment dates mark the beginning of the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). This is the dedicated time for anyone currently on Medicare to review their existing coverage, including their Medicare Advantage plans, and make changes for the upcoming year. Any adjustments you make during this window will take effect on January 1.
During the Medicare enrollment dates from January 1 to March 31, you are permitted to make exactly ONE change, which will take effect on the first day of the following month. You can switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan or drop your current plan to return to Original Medicare.

Medicare Part C—commonly referred to as Medicare Advantage—is a private insurance alternative to Original Medicare. With Medicare Advantage plans, instead of receiving your benefits directly from the federal government, you opt to get your Medicare coverage through a private, Medicare-approved insurance company. These Medicare Advantage p
Medicare Part C—commonly referred to as Medicare Advantage—is a private insurance alternative to Original Medicare. With Medicare Advantage plans, instead of receiving your benefits directly from the federal government, you opt to get your Medicare coverage through a private, Medicare-approved insurance company. These Medicare Advantage plans provide nearly all medically necessary services that Original Medicare covers. Understanding Medicare enrollment dates helps ensure you know when changes to coverage can be made.

Many Medicare Advantage plans offer low or $0 monthly plan premiums. However, you must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium. Plan costs, copays, and deductibles vary depending on the plan you choose.

Instead of the 20% coinsurance found in Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans use set copays for your doctor visits and specialist appointments. Best of all, these plans include an annual Out-of-Pocket Maximum, giving you a safety net that protects your savings from unlimited medical bills.
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Not connected with or endorsed by the United States government or the federal Medicare program. Just Ask Tam is an educational resource. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to general Medicare education and plan-neutral resources. For full plan options, please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP).
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