How to Navigate the Medicare AEP (Annual Enrollment Period)

Justin Hundley
Oct 14, 2025
3 min read

The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) happens every year from October 15 through December 7. During this time, Medicare beneficiaries can review, change, or update their plans for the upcoming year.

If you’re on Medicare, this window is your chance to make sure your plan still fits your needs — and that you’re not overpaying for coverage or missing out on better benefits.

In this guide, we’ll explain what the Medicare AEP is, what changes you can make, and how to navigate the process with confidence.

Senior couple reviewing Medicare plans during the Annual Enrollment Period. — The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period is your opportunity to make important coverage changes.

🕓 What Is the Medicare AEP? (Annual Enrollment Period)

The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is a seven-week period when anyone with Medicare can:

Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan.
Switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare.
Change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another.
Join, drop, or switch a Medicare Part D (prescription drug) plan.

Any changes you make during AEP will take effect on January 1 of the following year.

💡 Why Reviewing Your Plan Each Year Matters

Your health, prescriptions, and finances can change — and so can your Medicare plan. Insurance companies can update their provider networks, copays, or covered medications each year.

By reviewing your plan during AEP, you can:

✅ Make sure your doctors are still covered

✅ Check if your prescriptions are still affordable

✅ Compare new plans that might save you money or offer different benefits (like dental, vision, or hearing)

Even if you’re happy with your current plan, it’s smart to take a quick look — you might be surprised by what’s changed.

🧭 How to Navigate the Medicare AEP

Here’s a step-by-step approach to make the most of AEP:

Review your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC):Your plan will mail this document each fall. It explains what’s changing for the upcoming year — including premiums, copays, and coverage details.
Make a list of your doctors, medications, and preferred pharmacies: This helps you and your agent find a plan that truly fits your personal needs.
Schedule a no-cost plan review with us: We can help you review every plan available in your area — not just one company’s. AEP ends on December 7, and changes take effect January 1, so contact us early to prevent missing the window for change!
Tell a friend about Mountaineer Health and Life: We love helping as many people navigate Medicare as possible. It's impossible for us to reach everyone but with your help we can serve many more people!

Insurance agent explaining Medicare plan options during AEP to senior client. — *Mountaineer Health and Life can help simplify the process and ensure you find the right Medicare plan.*

👥 Why Work with an Independent Agent

Navigating Medicare alone can be confusing, but you don’t have to do it yourself.

Independent agents can:

Compare multiple plans side-by-side
Explain benefits and limitations in plain English
Help you find cost savings and avoid coverage gaps

At Mountaineer Health & Life Insurance, our licensed team offers free, personalized Medicare reviews — ensuring you get the right plan for your unique situation.