As fall rolls in, so does an important opportunity: Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). From October 15 to December 7, you have the chance to review, compare, and switch your Medicare plans for the following year. But once the deadline passes, your options become limited.

Whether you’re considering a switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan—or just shopping for a better drug plan—it’s worth taking the time now to get it right. This article will walk you through key things to think about before AEP ends, so you can feel confident in your choice.

1. Review What You Have Now

Before you make a change, ask yourself:

  • Am I satisfied with my current doctors and hospitals?
  • Do my medications cost too much?
  • Has my health changed this year?
  • Did my current plan raise its premium or change its benefits?

Even if you’re generally happy, your plan could be making changes for the new year. Each fall, plans send out a document called the Annual Notice of Change (ANOC). It outlines updates to premiums, coverage, provider networks, and drug costs for the coming year. If you haven’t read your ANOC yet, now’s the time!

2. Compare Medicare Advantage Plans Carefully

If you’re thinking about switching to a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C), take a close look at:

  • Monthly premiums (some are $0, others are not)
  • Out-of-pocket maximums (this limits what you’ll pay in a year)
  • Coverage for extras like dental, vision, hearing, and fitness
  • Provider network – Are your doctors and hospitals in the plan?

Also, be aware that some plans require referrals to see specialists and may only cover services within a specific network. What looks like a deal upfront might end up costing more if your providers are out-of-network.

3. Don’t Overlook Your Drug Coverage

Prescription costs are one of the top reasons people switch plans. If you’re enrolled in:

  • Original Medicare with a Part D plan, or
  • Medicare Advantage with drug coverage included,

you need to review how your medications are covered for the upcoming year.

Check:

  • Are your prescriptions still on the formulary (covered drug list)?
  • Are they in a higher tier, making them more expensive?
  • Is there a preferred pharmacy that offers lower co-pays?

Even a small change in your drug plan can result in big savings over the course of a year.

4. Understand the Cost Changes for 2026

Understanding how Medicare costs change from year to year can help you choose the coverage that fits your needs—and your budget. Here are the key updates to keep in mind:

Part B Premium Increase

  • The Part B premium rises to $202.90 per month in 2026 for most people.

Prescription Drug Out-of-Pocket Cap

  • In 2025, Medicare introduced a new annual limit on Part D spending: $2,000 per year.
  • In 2026, that limit increases slightly to $2,100.

Once you reach the cap, you pay $0 for covered prescriptions for the rest of the year.

5. Know Your Deadlines

The AEP ends December 7. Any changes you make during this time go into effect January 1, 2026.

After AEP, your next chance to make changes is:

  • Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (Jan 1–Mar 31) – only for people already in a Medicare Advantage plan
  • Special Enrollment Periods – only available for qualifying life events like moving or losing coverage

In other words, don’t wait until it’s too late.

6. Get Help if You’re Unsure

Medicare is complicated. You don’t have to figure it out alone. You can:

The most important thing is to make sure your plan still meets your health and financial needs.

The clock is ticking!

If you're thinking about switching your Medicare plan, make your move before December 7. Whether you want better drug coverage, a lower premium, or access to different doctors, now’s your time to act.

Join a Medicare class on GetSetUp to get help comparing plans and making smart choices before the deadline. Visit the Medicare Hub on GetSetUp and get the support you need—while there’s still time.