The right next step starts with the right date.

Annual Open Enrollment

October 15–December 7, 2026: review or change Medicare Advantage and Part D coverage for 2027. Changes made during this window generally start January 1, 2027.

Use your current plan’s Annual Notice of Change as a starting point. Our annual review guide walks through a practical approach.

Add the enrollment window to your calendar ↗

First-time enrollment

The Initial Enrollment Period generally lasts seven months around your 65th birthday month: three months before, the month itself and three months after. Some people qualify earlier. Automatic enrollment and the timing of coverage depend on your situation.

Use Social Security’s enrollment guidance to confirm what applies to you.

Other enrollment opportunities

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment generally runs January 1–March 31 for people already in Medicare Advantage. Qualifying circumstances, such as certain moves or coverage changes, may create a Special Enrollment Period. The allowed changes and deadlines depend on the circumstances.

Before you delay or change coverage

Check with the organization administering any employer or union coverage. If you are working at 65, review the conversations to have before enrolling.

Do not rely on a general calendar to determine your personal deadline. Confirm your dates with Medicare, Social Security or a qualified benefits counselor.