Every fall, Medicare gives you one chance to change your coverage for the coming year. It’s called the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), and this year it runs from October 15 through December 7, 2026. Changes you make take effect January 1, 2027.
What you can do during AEP
During these seven weeks you can switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan (or back), change from one Advantage plan to another, and join, drop, or switch a Part D prescription drug plan.
Why you should review your plan even if you like it
Your plan can change even when you don’t. Every September, plans mail an “Annual Notice of Change” (ANOC) letter listing next year’s premiums, copays, drug coverage, and provider networks. Most people never open it — and find out in January that their pharmacy left the network or a medication moved to a pricier tier. Ten minutes with that letter (or with us) can prevent an expensive surprise.
Three things to check before December 7
- Your medications — is every prescription still covered, and at what tier?
- Your doctors and pharmacy — are they still in the plan’s network next year?
- Your total costs — not just the premium, but copays, deductibles, and the out-of-pocket maximum.
A Memphis tip
Plan options here in Shelby County are different from what national TV commercials describe. The “free benefits” you hear advertised may not be available in Tennessee — or may cost more than they appear. Comparing what’s actually offered in your ZIP code is the only way to know.
The review costs you nothing
We’re a veteran-owned, independent Memphis agency — we compare plans from multiple carriers and there is never a charge for our services. Call (866) 327-6284 or schedule your free consultation before the December 7 deadline.
We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.