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Open enrollment checklist

Once a year you can change plans. A half hour of checking can save hundreds of dollars.

Medicare

Medicare open enrollment is on now, through December 7. Changes start January 1.

  1. Read your Annual Notice of Change

    Your plan mails it by September 30. It lists next year’s changes to premiums, copays, the drug list, and the network. If your plan is ending, you’ll get a separate non-renewal notice and a special window to choose another.

  2. Check every drug you take

    Drug lists and tiers change every January. Look up each drug on the plans you’re considering, including the one you have now.

    Check my drugs

  3. Check your doctors and pharmacy

    Medicare Advantage networks change too. Confirm your doctors, hospital, and pharmacy are in network for next year.

    Check a doctor

  4. Compare the whole year, not just the premium

    Add the premium, your drug costs, and the copays for care you expect. For Medicare Advantage, look at the plan’s out-of-pocket maximum: that’s your worst case.

    Compare plans by yearly cost

  5. See if you qualify for help

    Extra Help and Medicare Savings Programs can lower premiums and drug costs to near $0. Many people who qualify never apply.

    Check what I qualify for

  6. Thinking of leaving Medicare Advantage?

    You can return to Original Medicare, but in most states a Medigap insurer can turn you down or charge more after your first Medigap window. Line up a Medigap policy before you switch.

    Compare Medigap and Medicare Advantage

  7. Make your choice by December 7

    Changes start January 1. If you do nothing, your plan renews automatically. Medicare Advantage members get one more chance to switch plans or go back to Original Medicare from January 1 to March 31.

Remind me before the deadline