Medicare Open Enrollment Period (OEP): Who Can Change Plans?
February 7, 2026
Medicare Open Enrollment Period (OEP): Who Can Change Plans?
If you’re already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you may still have a second chance to make changes during the Medicare Open Enrollment Period (OEP).
OEP runs January 1 through March 31 each year and applies only to certain Medicare beneficiaries.
Who Can Use Medicare OEP?
You can use OEP if you are:
- Currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan
OEP does not apply to people with Original Medicare only.
What Changes Can You Make During OEP?
During OEP, you can:
- Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another
- Drop Medicare Advantage and return to Original Medicare
- Add a standalone Part D prescription drug plan if you return to Original Medicare
You cannot:
- Switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage
- Make multiple plan changes (only one change is allowed)
When Do Changes Take Effect?
Any changes made during OEP take effect on the first day of the month after you enroll.
Why People Use OEP
Common reasons include:
- Doctors or hospitals are out of network
- Prescription drug costs are higher than expected
- Benefits don’t meet healthcare needs
- Unexpected copays or bills
If your Medicare Advantage plan isn’t working for you, OEP gives you a limited opportunity to fix it.
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