Enrolling in Medicare

How do I change my Medicare plan?

You can change Medicare Advantage and Part D plans each fall during the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 to December 7). If you're in an Advantage plan, you can also switch once between January 1 and March 31. To switch, you simply enroll in the new plan — that automatically ends the old one.

Reviewed by Scott Stafford, Licensed Insurance Agent

Last updated June 21, 2026

The main window: October 15 – December 7

During the Annual Enrollment Period you can move between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, switch Advantage plans, and switch or add Part D drug coverage. The change takes effect January 1.

The Advantage-only window: January 1 – March 31

If you're already in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can use this period once to switch to a different Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare with a Part D plan.

How switching actually works

You don't need to cancel your old plan first. When you enroll in a new Medicare Advantage or Part D plan, your previous one ends automatically. To move from Advantage back to Original Medicare, you disenroll and pick up a Part D plan (and possibly a Supplement). A licensed agent can compare your options and handle the paperwork at no cost.

One thing to plan ahead for: if you leave Medicare Advantage for Original Medicare and want a Medicare Supplement, the Supplement may require medical underwriting depending on your timing and state.

Common questions