What Happens If You Missed Medicare’s Annual Election Period?

Posted by Emily Rose Mulvehill
Estimated Reading Time 1 minute 10 seconds

Medicare’s Annual Election Period is one of the most important times of the year for beneficiaries. From October 15 through December 7, you have the opportunity to:

• • review your coverage
  • switch Medicare Advantage plans
  • change prescription drug plans
  • or return to Original Medicare

This window is designed to help you align your health insurance with your current medical needs. But what happens if you miss AEP entirely or if you make a change and later realize it was not the right fit?

Missing the Annual Election Period can be stressful, but you are not without options.

After December 7, most individuals must keep their current coverage for the upcoming year (if you didn’t make changes during AEP). This means your existing Medicare Advantage or Part D plan will remain in place until the next AEP unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

Special Enrollment Periods are only granted under certain life events such as moving out of your plan’s service area, losing employer coverage, or qualifying for financial assistance programs. If none of these situations apply, you may need to wait until next October to make changes, which underscores the importance of reviewing your plan carefully before the deadline.

Another challenge beneficiaries face is selecting a plan based solely on the premium. Sometimes a low-cost plan turns out to have restricted provider networks, higher medication costs, or fewer benefits than expected. That is why carefully reviewing coverage details during AEP is essential. Once the window closes, correcting the mistake becomes much more difficult.

The Annual Election Period has ended, so if you have questions, reach out to us.  As licensed insurance agents, we will explain your current options.