This year the Medicare enrollment is set for 2015. What this means is that between October 15, 2015 through December 7, 2015, you will have the opportunity to look at the market place to see which Medicare Advantage plans, or gap plans, are available for year 2016. Anyone wanting to switch plans will have to do so during the AEP, as after December 7, 2015, no plan changes will be allowed.
During the Medicare Open Enrollment period, it can become very confusing with all the different plans on the market. Most of the carriers have 3 to 4 different plans from which to choose. Also during this time, you will become inundated with mail that has been mailed to you by each carrier.
Agents that sell Medicare Health insurance products, must have a national certification to even talk to you about Medicare Insurance, and they must go through training with each carrier they represent. It is always best to seek out an independent agent that represents many companies, so they can help you find the best option that will best serve your needs.
Medicare Key Dates
September – October: Medicare Advantage and Part D Prescription Drug plans are released with new premium and benefit design information for the coming year.
October 15: Medicare Open Enrollment Period (OEP) begins.
Medicare Advantage and Part D Prescription Drug plans begin accepting applications for the upcoming plan year.
December 7: Medicare Open Enrollment Period (OEP) Ends
The last day Medicare Advantage and Part D Prescription Drug plans are able to accept applications for the coming plan year.
January 1: Medicare Advantage and Part D Prescription Drug plans become effective for the new plan year.