Medicare Open Enrollment Begins Oct. 15; Review 2027 Coverage Now
Medicare beneficiaries can begin shopping for and enrolling in new coverage starting October 15 through December 7, 2026. Changes to premiums, coverage options, and plan availability will take effect January 1, 2027.
Medicare's annual open enrollment period runs October 15 through December 7, 2026, allowing beneficiaries to compare and switch plans for coverage effective January 1, 2027. This is the critical window for seniors and certain disabled individuals to review their health insurance options for the upcoming year.
Key Dates and Action Items
- October 15–December 7, 2026: Open enrollment window
- January 1, 2027: New coverage takes effect
- Plans available to compare at Medicare.gov
During this period, participants can switch between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans, change Part D prescription drug coverage, or adjust supplemental (Medigap) insurance. Plan premiums, copayments, and network providers often change year to year, making a careful review worthwhile.
Income Limits (IRMAA) Update: Current projections suggest 2027 income thresholds for Medicare premium surcharges will rise by 2.7% to 3.7% compared to 2026. Official brackets will be announced in late October or November.
If you are a newly eligible senior or immigrant with permanent residence status, now is the time to enroll. Delaying enrollment can trigger late penalties. Start your review at Medicare.gov to understand which plans cover your doctors, medications, and preferred hospitals before the December 7 deadline.
Sources
Independent app, not a government. General information, not advice. The official source:
