When is the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)?
The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is a designated time each year for eligible persons to change Medicare coverage choices. This enrollment opportunity is also referred to less formally as the Medicare Open Enrollment Period or the Annual Enrollment Period. The types of plans subject to the AEP are those associated with Medicare Advantage, Part D Prescription Drug Plans and limited other Medicare-related plans subject to guidelines from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). All people with Medicare have an opportunity to change their Medicare health plans and prescription drug coverage to better meet their needs between October and December each year. Coverage elections made during this time typically go into effect on Jan. 1 of the following year. For support and additional information, explore our Health Plans Regulated Communications.