Medicare Open Enrollment runs from October 15th to December 7th, every year. During this time you can switch to or join a Medicare Advantage plan, prescription drug plan, or Original Medicare. Here are three things to do during Open Enrollment Medicare. Visit this article to read updated Annual Election Period news.
This article was written on May 19, 2015 but updated on the date above with new information.
1) Check Your Current Medicare Coverage
Before you do anything else you’ll want to go over your current health plan coverage. You can access this through your plan’s website, by speaking to an agent, or through your insurer’s paper explanation of benefits. You’ll want to look to see if there are any changes to your current health plan. It makes sense to compare your current coverage to other plans available in your area. If you like what you have you don’t have to do anything else. If you don’t, read on.
2) Look Over Medicare Costs
You should look over Medicare costs at a glance to get a better understanding of how Original Medicare covers your health care. (Source)
3) Enroll in a Health Plan
If you decide that you want to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan or prescription drug plan you’ll want to get quotes and then apply. If you decide you want to return to Original Medicare you’ll need to drop your current coverage and apply for Medicare at the CMS site. Call the number above to get quotes and apply.
Medicare Open Enrollment Tip
Remember that this is not the time to enroll in a Medigap plan. Most states only guarantee enrollment in a Medigap plan if you are in your initial enrollment period (6 month time frame that starts when you are first eligible for Medicare Part B and 65). If that period has passed, your best option is using the Birthday Rule or a similar law. Otherwise, switching may require answering health questions. See where you stand with our Medigap Underwriting Checker or give us a call.
Learn More about Open Enrollment
For further questions about Medicare Open Enrollment click the button above or contact Senior65.com. Click here for a Medicare Advantage quote or here for Drug plan quote.