Annual Enrollment Period

Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) (October 15th-December 7th)

The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) typically refers to a specific period during which individuals can make changes to their health insurance plans or enroll in new ones.

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Here are some key points about the Annual Enrollment Period:

  • Timing

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  • Purpose

    The primary purpose of the AEP is to allow individuals to review their current coverage and make changes if necessary.

  • Changes Allowed

    During the Annual Enrollment Period, individuals can typically do the following:

    • -Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan.
    • Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan back to Original Medicare.
    • Change from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another.
    • Enroll in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D) if they didn't do so when first eligible.
    • Switch to another Medicare Prescription Drug Plan.

  • Exceptions

    There are certain circumstances, such as qualifying life events (like marriage, birth/adoption of a child, or loss of other coverage), that may qualify individuals for a Special Enrollment Period outside of the AEP.

  • Importance

    It's crucial for individuals to review their health insurance options during the AEP to ensure they have the coverage that best meets their current needs. Changes made during this period generally take effect on January 1 of the following year.

Overall, the Annual Enrollment Period is a critical time for beneficiaries of Medicare and other health insurance plans to evaluate and adjust their coverage as necessary for the upcoming year.

Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) Document

The Medicare Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) is a document sent to you in late August or September by your Medicare Advantage (Part C) or Medicare Prescription Drug (Part D) plan carrier. The purpose of this notice is to prepare you for the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) by providing detailed information about the changes to your plan for the upcoming year. This helps you decide if you want to stay with the current plan you are on or make a change during AEP.

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Here is what you can expect in your ANOC:

  • 1. Coverage Changes:

    Details about any changes in the medical and drug coverage provided by the plan. This could include updates to covered services, changes in network providers, or alterations in the types of drugs covered.

  • 2. Cost Changes:

    Information on any adjustments to premiums, deductibles, copayments, or coinsurance.

  • 3. Formulary Changes:

    For Medicare Part D plans, the ANOC will outline changes to the drug formulary, which is the list of covered prescription drugs. This might include additions or deletions of drugs, as well as changes in drug tiers. IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO REVIEW THIS while cross-referencing any changes to your medications.

  • 4. Provider Network Changes:

    Updates on which healthcare providers and facilities are in-network, including any changes to the availability of services or providers.

  • 5. Plan Rules and Ancillary Benefits:

    Any modifications to the plan’s rules, such as authorization requirements or coverage limits, as well as changes in ancillary benefits like dental, vision, OTC, and wellness services.



The ANOC is crucial for you to understand how your current plan will change in the upcoming year. It helps you prepare for the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), which occurs from October 15 to December 7 each year. It helps you decide if you want to switch plans or make other changes if needed.

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