Resources

Important Dates

Medicare enrollment windows, health insurance open enrollment, and key deadlines — all in one place so you never miss a critical date.

The More We Know Product Videos Important Dates

Dates shown are general guidelines for 2026–2027. Individual circumstances, plan types, and state rules may affect your specific enrollment window. Contact Laura to confirm what applies to your situation.

Medicare Enrollment Periods

Oct 15 – Dec 7

Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)

Switch, join, or drop a Medicare Advantage or Part D prescription drug plan. Changes take effect January 1.

Jan 1 – Mar 31

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP)

If you are already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you may switch to a different MA plan or return to Original Medicare once during this window.

3 months before to 3 months after your 65th birthday

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

Your 7-month window to sign up for Medicare Parts A and B when you first become eligible. Missing this window may result in a late-enrollment penalty.

Starts the month you turn 65 and enroll in Part B

Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Open Enrollment

A 6-month window during which insurers cannot deny coverage or charge more due to pre-existing conditions. This window does not repeat — timing matters.

Varies — triggered by qualifying life event

Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

You may qualify for a SEP if you lose employer coverage, move out of your plan's service area, or experience other qualifying life changes. Contact Laura to confirm eligibility.

Health Insurance Open Enrollment

Nov 1 – Jan 15

ACA Marketplace Open Enrollment

Enroll in or change an individual or family health plan through the Affordable Care Act marketplace. Coverage effective January 1 for plans selected by December 15; February 1 for plans selected by January 15.

Typically Nov 1 – Dec 15 (employer sets dates)

Employer Group Open Enrollment

Most employer-sponsored health plans hold open enrollment in the fall. Check with your HR department for your specific window.

Varies — triggered by qualifying life event

Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

Marriage, birth, adoption, loss of other coverage, and certain other life events trigger a 60-day SEP to enroll outside the standard window.

Reminders & Key Deadlines

December 7

AEP Closes — Last Day to Make Medicare Plan Changes

All Medicare Advantage and Part D changes submitted by December 7 take effect January 1. After this date you must wait until next AEP or qualify for a SEP.

January 1

New Plan Year Begins

AEP plan selections take effect. Review your new Summary of Benefits, formulary, and provider network to avoid surprises.

Mailed by September 30 each year

Annual Notice of Change (ANOC)

Medicare Advantage and Part D plans must mail your ANOC by September 30. Review it carefully — premiums, copays, formularies, and networks can change each year.

Ongoing

Life Changes That Trigger a SEP

Moving to a new address, losing employer coverage, gaining Medicaid eligibility, or a plan leaving your area can all open a Special Enrollment Period. Most SEPs are 60 days — reach out promptly.

Not sure which window applies to you?

Enrollment rules depend on your age, current coverage, and life situation. Laura can walk you through exactly what applies — no pressure, no jargon.

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