When can I change my Medicare plan?

The main window is the Annual Enrollment Period, October 15 through December 7, when you can switch Medicare Advantage or Part D plans for a January 1 start. If you are already in a Medicare Advantage plan, the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31) lets you make one change. Certain life events — moving, losing other coverage, gaining Medicaid or Extra Help — create Special Enrollment Periods. Medicare Supplement policies work differently: you can apply any time, but outside protected windows insurers in most states can ask health questions.

— Medicare Agent Scout editorial team