How to Switch Medicare Plans: What You Need to Know Before Making a Change
Are you paying too much for Medicare? Not happy with your current coverage? Switching Medicare plans can help you save money, get better benefits, or find a plan that better fits your healthcare needs.
Whether you want to change your Medicare Advantage plan, Medicare Supplement (Medigap), or Medicare Part D prescription drug plan, understanding when and how to switch is essential to avoid gaps in coverage and unnecessary costs.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- When you can switch Medicare plans
- How to change plans during the Annual Election Period (AEP) or Special Enrollment Period (SEP)
- What to consider before making a switch
Let’s make sure you’re getting the best Medicare plan for your needs in 2025!
When Can You Change Medicare Plans?
There are only certain times during the year when you can switch Medicare plans. These include:
1. Annual Election Period (AEP) – October 15 to December 7
• This is the main period when you can switch Medicare Advantage or Medicare Part D plans.
• Any changes made during AEP take effect January 1 of the following year.
• What You Can Do During AEP:
- Switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage
- Switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare
- Change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another
- Change your Medicare Part D prescription drug plan
2. Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period – January 1 to March 31
• If you’re already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you have a one-time opportunity to:
- Switch to another Medicare Advantage plan (with or without drug coverage)
- Drop Medicare Advantage and return to Original Medicare (and enroll in a Part D plan)
• You CANNOT switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan during this period.
3. Special Enrollment Period (SEP) – For Qualifying Life Events
• If you experience certain life changes, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to change Medicare plans.
• Common Qualifying Life Events for an SEP:
- Moving to a new state or outside your plan’s service area
- Losing employer or union health coverage
- Becoming eligible for Medicaid or Extra Help
- Switching from a 5-star Medicare plan (if available in your area)
If you qualify for an SEP, your new Medicare coverage usually starts the month after you enroll.
How to Switch Medicare Plans – Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Review Your Current Medicare Coverage
• Are your premiums, copays, and deductibles increasing?
• Are your doctors still in-network?
• Do you need better prescription drug coverage?
• Does your Medicare Advantage plan still offer the benefits you need (dental, vision, hearing, etc.)?
If your current plan no longer meets your needs, it’s time to compare options!
Step 2: Compare Medicare Plans in Your Area
Use the Medicare Plan Finder tool at Medicare.gov to compare:
- Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans
- Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans
- Medicare Part D prescription drug plans
Need help comparing plans? Contact a licensed Medicare agent (like me!) for free, personalized guidance.
Step 3: Check Your Doctors & Prescription Drug Coverage
• If switching to a Medicare Advantage plan, make sure your doctors and hospitals are in-network.
• If switching Part D plans, check that your prescriptions are covered and compare copays at different pharmacies.
Step 4: Enroll in Your New Medicare Plan
Once you’ve selected the best plan:
- Enroll online at Medicare.gov
- Call the new plan directly
- Work with a licensed Medicare broker (free service!)
Tip: If switching Medicare Advantage or Part D plans, you don’t need to cancel your old plan—your new plan will automatically replace it on January 1.
Step 5: Review Your New Medicare Plan Details
After switching, review:
• Your new Medicare ID card (it should arrive in the mail before your plan starts)
• Your plan’s Summary of Benefits
• Your drug formulary (if applicable)
If you changed Medicare Advantage plans, check that your doctors have your updated insurance information.
Things to Consider Before Switching Medicare Plans
- Does the new plan cover your doctors and prescriptions?
- Are the monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs affordable?
- Will you get extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, or fitness programs?
- Are you switching at the right time to avoid a gap in coverage?
Switching Medicare plans can be a smart move—but only if you choose the right one!
Frequently Asked Questions About Switching Medicare Plans
Can I Switch from Medicare Advantage Back to Original Medicare?
Yes! You can switch from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare during the Annual Election Period (Oct. 15 – Dec. 7) or the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (Jan. 1 – Mar. 31).
Can I Change My Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plan?
Yes, but switching Medigap plans isn’t as easy as Medicare Advantage or Part D. You may have to undergo medical underwriting (which means insurance companies can deny coverage based on your health).
- The best time to get Medigap is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period (when you first enroll in Medicare Part B).
Can I Have Both Medicare Advantage and a Medigap Plan?
No, you can’t have both. You must choose either:
- Original Medicare + Medigap + Part D
- Medicare Advantage (which usually includes drug coverage)
Need Help Switching Medicare Plans? Get Expert Guidance for FREE!
Choosing the right Medicare plan can be overwhelming, but I’m here to help!
Call or Text: 386-229-5885
Serving Daytona Beach, Port Orange, and surrounding areas
Visit my website to schedule a free consultation!
- As a licensed Medicare broker, I provide unbiased, expert advice—at no cost to you!
