Important Medicare Dates
When can I join, switch, or drop a plan?
You can join, switch, or drop a Medicare health plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) with or without drug coverage during these times:
- Initial Enrollment Period. When you first become eligible for Medicare, you can join a plan (see page 17).
- Open Enrollment Period. From October 15 – December 7 each year, you can join, switch, or drop a plan. Your coverage will begin on January 1 (as long as the plan gets your request by December 7).
- Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period. From January 1 – March 31 each year, if you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan, you can switch to a different Medicare Advantage Plan or switch to Original Medicare (and join a separate Medicare drug plan) once during this time.
Medicare Annual Enrollment Is Right Around the Corner. Medicare Annual Enrollment begins October 15 and runs through December 7 . This is the time for Medicare beneficiaries to review their current Medicare Advantage and prescription drug coverage for 2027. Plans can change from year to year, including premiums, prescription coverage, provider networks, copays, and other benefits. Don’t wait until the last minute. Crawford Benefits will be preparing for AEP throughout September—start gathering your updated medication, doctor, pharmacy, and coverage information.
