Quick Answer
The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MAOEP) occurs annually from January 1 until March 31. During the MA Open Enrollment Period, those who already have Medicare Advantage plans can make one change to their coverage.
Coverage Comparison by Plan Type
| Plan Type | Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Original Medicare | Varies | Coverage depends on specific services |
| Medicare Advantage | Varies | Additional benefits may be available |
| Medigap | Supplements | Helps cover out-of-pocket costs |
Understanding Your Coverage Options
Overview
**URL:** https://www.medicarefaq.com/faqs/medicare-advantage-open-enrollment-period/
**Summary:** The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MAOEP) occurs annually from January 1 until March 31. During the MA Open Enrollment Period, those who already have Medicare Advantage plans can make one change to their coverage. The MAOEP is not the time to enroll in Medicare Advantage for the first time. Be sure to use this period to review your plan’s network, coverage, and formulary when applicable to ensure that your coverage meets your healthcare needs. Estimated Read Time: 9 mins
If you are unhappy with your current Medicare Advantage plan, the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MAOEP) is an annual window that allows you to make a one-time change to your existing Medicare Advantage coverage.
Do You Have to Go through Underwriting if You Switch during the MAOEP Period?
Betsy, you will never have to go through underwriting for a Medicare Advantage plan. However, if you leave Medicare Advantage during MAOEP, and wish to enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan, you will need to go through underwriting to enroll in a Medigap plan.
Can I change my Part D plan during this period? I am on Original Medicare with a Part D drug plan that is not what I thought it was, based on the numbers I saw on medicare.gov.
Hello Robert, unfortunately unless you have a special enrollment period, you are not eligible to change your Medicare Part D plan during this time. The annual Medicare Part D enrollment period is October 15-December 7.
If I want to disenroll from a MA plan and go back to original medicare, do I simply call to cancel my MA and choose a PDP?
Tina, from January 1 through March 31, you can leave your Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare. This time is known as the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period. To review your options, complete our online rate form to speak with a licensed agent.
I have Medicare Advantage with Kaiser, would like to switch to BLUESHIELD Medigap PPO, can I do it on my Birthday? Or Only bebfore December 7th?
Hi Pravan – today is the last day of the Annual Enrollment Period. However, since you currently have an Advantage plan, you will have another opportunity to switch your Advantage plan during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period, which will be from January 1 through March 31.
Which Medicare program fits best when you also have VA coverage and travel throughout the year often away from home base.
Hi John! We have a great article on veteran benefits and Medicare that should be able to answer your question!
✦ Frequently Asked Questions
David Haass
AuthorDavid Haass is the Chief Technology Officer and Co-Founder of Elite Insurance Partners and MedicareFAQ.com.
Ashlee Zareczny
ReviewerAshlee Zareczny is the Director of Operations for MedicareFAQ. As a licensed Medicare agent in all 50 states, she is dedicated to educating those eligible for Medicare.