The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period provides additional opportunities to change Medicare Advantage plans (also known as Medicare Part C) outside the Annual Election Period (October 15 – December 7).

When is the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period?

The annual Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA OEP) allows anyone enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan on January 1 the opportunity to change plans. The annual MA OEP runs from January 1 to March 31.

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There is also an individualized Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period that’s limited to new Medicare beneficiaries with both Medicare Part A and B who enroll in an MA plan during their initial coverage election period. These individuals have a three-month MA OEP to switch plans.

Both the individual and the annual Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period allow Medicare beneficiaries already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan a one-time election to either:

  • Switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan, OR
  • Switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to Original Medicare with or without a Part D prescription drug plan.

This enrollment period does not allow for Part D changes for individuals enrolled in Original Medicare. Changes to your enrollment will take effect on the first of the month following the month you enroll.