--- title: "Annual Enrollment Period 2026 in Alabama | Compare Medicare Plans" description: "Your Alabama plan may have changed for 2026. Compare rates, check formularies, and switch before Dec 7. Free review: (334) 489-3624." lang: en json-ld: | [ { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@graph": [ { "@type": "Event", "name": "Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) 2026", "description": "Annual opportunity to change your Medicare coverage for the following year", "startDate": "2026-10-15", "endDate": "2026-12-07", "eventStatus": "https://schema.org/EventScheduled", "eventAttendanceMode": "https://schema.org/OfflineEventAttendanceMode", "organizer": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services", "url": "https://www.medicare.gov" }, "location": { "@type": "VirtualLocation", "url": "https://dalton-insuranceagency.com/annual-enrollment-period" } }, { "@type": "HowTo", "name": "How to Review Your Medicare Coverage During AEP", "description": "Step-by-step checklist for evaluating and changing your Medicare plans during Annual Enrollment Period", "totalTime": "PT45M", "step": [ { "@type": "HowToStep", "position": 1, "name": "Review Your Current Coverage", "text": "Look at your current plan's Summary of Benefits and Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) sent in September" }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "position": 2, "name": "Update Your Medication List", "text": "List all prescriptions you're currently taking and any medications you expect to need next year" }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "position": 3, "name": "Check Doctor Networks", "text": "Verify your doctors and specialists are still in-network for next year" }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "position": 4, "name": "Compare New Plans", "text": "Use Medicare Plan Finder to compare all available options in your area" }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "position": 5, "name": "Enroll by December 7", "text": "Submit your enrollment before the deadline for coverage starting January 1" } ] } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://dalton-insuranceagency.com/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Annual Enrollment Period", "item": "https://dalton-insuranceagency.com/annual-enrollment-period" } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do you get paid? Is there a cost to me?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "There is absolutely no cost to you for our consultation services. We are compensated directly by the insurance carriers when you enroll in a plan. This commission-based model means we can offer free expert guidance without charging you consultation fees, enrollment fees, or any other costs. We work with multiple carriers and provide unbiased recommendations based on your individual needs and circumstances—not on commission structures. Our business succeeds when we help you find the right plan, so your satisfaction is our top priority." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "When is Medicare Annual Enrollment Period?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. During this time, you can change your Medicare Advantage plan, switch to Original Medicare, or change your Part D prescription drug coverage. Changes take effect January 1 of the following year." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the difference between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Original Medicare (Parts A & B) is provided directly by the federal government and covers hospital and medical services. Medicare Advantage (Part C) is offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. It includes all benefits of Original Medicare plus additional coverage like vision, dental, hearing, and prescription drugs all in one plan." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do I need a Medigap plan if I have Medicare Advantage?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "No, you cannot have both Medigap and Medicare Advantage at the same time. Medigap supplements Original Medicare to cover gaps like copays and deductibles. Medicare Advantage plans already include this coverage within the plan structure, so Medigap is not necessary or allowed." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do I know if I need to switch my drug plan?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "You should review your Part D plan annually because formularies (covered drugs) and costs change each year. If your medications are no longer covered, moved to a higher tier, or if you found a plan with lower premiums and better coverage for your specific drugs, it may be time to switch. We can help you compare plans based on your current medications." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is Hospital Indemnity insurance and who needs it?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Hospital Indemnity insurance pays you cash benefits directly for hospital stays, regardless of your other insurance. This money can be used for any purpose - deductibles, copays, bills at home, or living expenses. It's valuable if you want extra financial protection during hospital stays, have high deductibles, or want peace of mind knowing you'll have cash available when needed." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do you get paid? Is there a cost to me?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "There is absolutely no cost to you for our consultation services. We are compensated directly by the insurance carriers when you enroll in a plan. This commission-based model means we can offer free expert guidance without charging you consultation fees, enrollment fees, or any other costs. We work with multiple carriers and provide unbiased recommendations based on your individual needs and circumstances—not on commission structures. Our business succeeds when we help you find the right plan, so your satisfaction is our top priority." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I enroll in Medicare outside of the Annual Enrollment Period?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "In most cases, you can only make changes during specific enrollment periods. However, there are Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) if you qualify due to certain life events like moving, losing other coverage, or qualifying for Extra Help. The Initial Enrollment Period is when you first become eligible for Medicare at age 65." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What happens if I miss the enrollment deadline?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "If you miss the December 7 deadline during Annual Enrollment, your current coverage will continue into the next year. You'll have to wait until the next enrollment period to make changes unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. It's important to review your options early to avoid missing the deadline." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the difference between Medicare Part A and Part B?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care. It's often called 'hospital insurance.' Medicare Part B covers doctors' visits, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services. It's known as 'medical insurance.' Most people pay a monthly premium for Part B, while Part A is usually premium-free if you or your spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is Medicare Part D and do I need it?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Medicare Part D is prescription drug coverage offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. If you take regular medications, Part D can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Even if you don't take many medications now, enrolling when first eligible helps avoid late enrollment penalties. We can help you find a plan that covers your specific medications at the lowest cost." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Will I continue to receive support after I enroll?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Absolutely! As a family-run business, we provide lifetime service to all our clients. We're here to answer questions, help with claims, assist with medication changes, and review your coverage annually to ensure you always have the best plan for your needs. You're not just a client—you're part of our family." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much does Medicare cost?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Medicare costs vary depending on your coverage choices. Most people don't pay a premium for Part A. Part B has a standard monthly premium (2026: $202.90). Medicare Advantage plan premiums vary from $0 to over $100/month depending on the plan and your location. Medigap premiums also vary by plan type and location. We'll help you understand all costs including premiums, deductibles, copays, and out-of-pocket maximums." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I keep my current doctor with Medicare?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "It depends on your coverage choice. With Original Medicare plus Medigap, you can see any doctor who accepts Medicare nationwide. With Medicare Advantage, you typically need to use doctors in the plan's network, though some plans offer out-of-network coverage. We'll help you verify if your doctors are in-network before you enroll." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What are the 'donut hole' and coverage gap?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The 'donut hole' or coverage gap is a temporary limit on what Part D plans cover for prescription drugs. In 2026, once you and your plan have spent a certain amount on covered drugs, you enter the coverage gap where you pay 25% for brand-name and generic drugs. After reaching the catastrophic coverage threshold, you pay much less. Many Medicare Advantage plans offer gap coverage to reduce or eliminate these costs." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is Extra Help and how do I qualify?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Extra Help is a Medicare program that helps pay for Part D prescription drug costs including premiums, deductibles, and copays. You may qualify if you have limited income and resources. In 2026, you may qualify if your annual income is under $23,495 (individual) or $31,825 (married couple) and resources under $17,220 (individual) or $34,360 (couple). We can help you apply and find plans that work with Extra Help." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What if I'm still working and have employer coverage?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "If you have creditable employer coverage (at least as good as Medicare), you may be able to delay enrolling in Part B and Part D without penalty. However, rules vary by employer size and plan type. We recommend consulting with your HR department and one of our advisors to determine the best enrollment strategy to avoid gaps in coverage and potential penalties." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I switch plans if I'm not happy with my current coverage?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes! During the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 - December 7), you can switch Medicare Advantage plans, move between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, or change Part D plans. There's also the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 - March 31) when you can switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare. We're here to help you make changes whenever you're eligible." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do Medicare plans cover vision, dental, and hearing?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Original Medicare typically doesn't cover routine vision, dental, or hearing services. However, many Medicare Advantage plans include these benefits. Coverage levels vary by plan—some offer comprehensive dental including major services, while others cover only preventive care. We'll help you compare plans to find one that includes the benefits you need most." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What should I bring to my consultation?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Please bring your Medicare card, current insurance cards, a list of all your medications (including dosages), a list of your doctors and specialists, and any questions you have. If you have recent medical bills or Explanation of Benefits statements, those can be helpful too. Don't worry if you don't have everything—we can still help you explore your options." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do I know which plan is right for me?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Choosing the right plan depends on your unique situation—your doctors, medications, health conditions, budget, and preferences. That's where we come in. Our experienced advisors will take time to understand your needs, compare all available options, and recommend plans that provide the best coverage for your specific situation. We make the complex simple." } } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "InsuranceAgency", "name": "Dalton Insurance Agency", "url": "https://dalton-insuranceagency.com/annual-enrollment-period", "telephone": "+1-334-489-3624", "image": "https://dalton-insuranceagency.com/favicon-dia-preview.png", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "streetAddress": "221 E South Street", "addressLocality": "Dadeville", "addressRegion": "AL", "postalCode": "36853", "addressCountry": "US" }, "geo": { "@type": "GeoCoordinates", "latitude": 32.8312, "longitude": -85.7636 }, "areaServed": { "@type": "City", "name": "Alabama", "containedInPlace": { "@type": "State", "name": "Alabama" } }, "founder": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Tyler Dalton", "honorificSuffix": "PharmD", "jobTitle": "Licensed Insurance Broker" }, "openingHoursSpecification": { "@type": "OpeningHoursSpecification", "dayOfWeek": [ "Monday", "Tuesday", "Wednesday", "Thursday", "Friday" ], "opens": "08:00", "closes": "17:00" }, "priceRange": "Free Consultations" }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "When is Medicare Open Enrollment in Alabama?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Oct 15 to Dec 7 each year." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What changes can I make during AEP?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "You can switch between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare, change Part D plans, or modify your Medigap coverage." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Does Medicare Advantage have networks?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. We verify your doctors and hospitals are in-network before you switch." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I change my Medigap plan during AEP?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, you can switch Medigap plans during AEP, though medical underwriting may apply in some cases." } } ] } ] --- [Call Now: (334) 489-3624 ](tel:13344893624)Free Medicare Consultation Free Consult [ Dalton Insurance Medicare & Wealth Advisors ](/) - [Home](/) - Medicare - Retirement & Wealth - Resources - [About Us](/about) [(334) 489-3624](tel:13344893624)[Book Appointment](/appointments) 1. [Home ](/) 2. Annual Enrollment Period [Back to Home](/) October 15 - December 7, 2026 # Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) 2026 Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is the most important 7-week window in Medicare. Every year from **October 15 through December 7**, millions of Medicare beneficiaries have the opportunity to review their current coverage and make changes that will take effect on January 1 of the following year. ## Why Is AEP So Important? Your health needs change. Medications change. Doctor networks change. Costs change. Annual Enrollment Period is your guaranteed opportunity to ensure your Medicare coverage still fits your life—without medical underwriting, without penalties, and with the freedom to switch between plan types, carriers, and coverage levels. If you are still weighing[Medicare Advantage vs. Original Medicare](/medicare-comparison)or want a closer look at[Medigap options](/medicare-supplement), AEP is when those decisions matter most. During AEP, you can make virtually any change to your Medicare coverage: switch from a Medicare Advantage plan back to Original Medicare (or vice versa), change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another, add or drop Part D prescription drug coverage, or even apply for Medigap coverage (though medical underwriting applies for Medigap). These changes aren't available during most of the year, which is why planning ahead and reviewing your options during this window is crucial. If your prescriptions are driving the decision, review your[Part D plan choices](/part-d)before you make a switch. Missing the December 7 deadline means you're typically locked into your current coverage until the next AEP—unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. That's why we recommend starting your review in October, giving yourself ample time to compare plans, check drug formularies, verify doctor networks, and make an informed decision without the pressure of a looming deadline. If you still need to confirm your enrollment windows, use our[Medicare timeline tool](/medicare-timeline)or review the[full enrollment checklist](/medicare-enrollment-checklist). Schedule Free AEP Review[Compare Plans Now](https://www.sunfirematrix.com/app/consumer/brock/20797672/) ## Watch: Medicare Annual Enrollment Explained Learn when AEP takes place, what changes you can make, and why acting before the deadline is essential. ## Your AEP Timeline: Key Dates for 2026-2027 ### AEP Begins October 15 First day to make changes to your Medicare coverage ### Review Period October - November Compare plans, review medications, check doctor networks ### Last Day to Enroll December 7 Final deadline to submit enrollment changes ### Coverage Begins January 1 Your new Medicare coverage takes effect ## What Changes Can You Make During AEP? Annual Enrollment Period is the most flexible time to adjust your Medicare coverage. Here's everything you're allowed to change. ### Change MA Plan to MA Plan Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another Medicare Advantage plan Examples: - • Find a plan with better drug coverage - • Switch to a plan with your doctors in-network - • Get better vision or dental benefits ### Change Medigap to Medigap Switch from one Medicare Supplement plan to another Medigap plan Examples: - • Move to a lower-cost plan with the same benefits - • Change carriers for better pricing - • No medical underwriting required for same or lesser benefits ### Change Medigap to MA Plan Leave your Medigap plan and join a Medicare Advantage plan Examples: - • Get prescription drug coverage included - • Add dental and vision benefits - • Lower monthly premiums ### Change PDP to PDP Switch from one Part D prescription drug plan to another Examples: - • Find better coverage for your specific medications - • Reduce out-of-pocket drug costs - • Get a plan with preferred pharmacy network ### Change PDP to MA Plan Drop standalone Part D and join a Medicare Advantage plan with drug coverage Examples: - • Combine medical and drug coverage in one plan - • Simplify with a single monthly premium - • Get additional benefits like dental and vision ### Change MA to Medigap (with underwriting) Leave Medicare Advantage and return to Original Medicare with a Medigap plan Examples: - • Get nationwide doctor access - • Eliminate provider networks - • Note: Medical underwriting required - health conditions may affect approval or pricing ## Compare Medicare Plans in Your Area Use our interactive plan comparison tool to see all available Medicare Advantage and Part D plans in your ZIP code. Enter your medications to see exact costs and compare benefits side-by-side. ### Interactive Plan Finder - Compare all Medicare Advantage and Part D plans in your area - Enter your medications to see exact drug costs - Check if your doctors are in-network - Calculate total annual costs including premiums and copays [Launch Plan Comparison Tool](https://www.sunfirematrix.com/app/consumer/brock/20797672/) Free, unbiased comparison of all plans available in your area #### Need Help Understanding Your Results? The plan finder shows you data, but choosing the right plan requires understanding your unique situation. We'll help you interpret the results and explain which plan truly fits your needs—no cost, no obligation. Schedule Free Plan Review Call ## Find Your City's AEP Guide Get city-specific Medicare Annual Enrollment Period guidance for your Alabama community. Each page includes local information, available plans, and personalized support. [ Huntsville ](/aep/huntsville)[ Birmingham ](/aep/birmingham)[ Montgomery ](/aep/montgomery)[ Mobile ](/aep/mobile)[ Tuscaloosa ](/aep/tuscaloosa)[ Hoover ](/aep/hoover)[ Dothan ](/aep/dothan)[ Auburn ](/aep/auburn)[ Decatur ](/aep/decatur)[ Madison ](/aep/madison)[ Florence ](/aep/florence)[ Gadsden ](/aep/gadsden)[ Vestavia Hills ](/aep/vestavia-hills)[ Prattville ](/aep/prattville)[ Phenix City ](/aep/phenix-city)[ Athens ](/aep/athens)[ Bessemer ](/aep/bessemer)[ Enterprise ](/aep/enterprise)[ Opelika ](/aep/opelika)[ Homewood ](/aep/homewood)[ Northport ](/aep/northport)[ Anniston ](/aep/anniston)[ Prichard ](/aep/prichard)[ Albertville ](/aep/albertville)[ Cullman ](/aep/cullman)[ Selma ](/aep/selma)[ Mountain Brook ](/aep/mountain-brook)[ Trussville ](/aep/trussville)[ Daphne ](/aep/daphne)[ Pelham ](/aep/pelham)[ Oxford ](/aep/oxford)[ Talladega ](/aep/talladega)[ Pell City ](/aep/pell-city)[ Jasper ](/aep/jasper)[ Troy ](/aep/troy)[ Helena ](/aep/helena)[ Hartselle ](/aep/hartselle)[ Alexander City ](/aep/alexander-city)[ Scottsboro ](/aep/scottsboro)[ Millbrook ](/aep/millbrook)[ Fairhope ](/aep/fairhope)[ Ozark ](/aep/ozark)[ Fort Payne ](/aep/fort-payne)[ Foley ](/aep/foley)[ Russellville ](/aep/russellville)[ Andalusia ](/aep/andalusia)[ Gardendale ](/aep/gardendale)[ Sylacauga ](/aep/sylacauga)[ Muscle Shoals ](/aep/muscle-shoals)[ Guntersville ](/aep/guntersville)[ Valley ](/aep/valley)[ Center Point ](/aep/center-point)[ Chelsea ](/aep/chelsea)[ Chickasaw ](/aep/chickasaw)[ Eufaula ](/aep/eufaula)[ Saraland ](/aep/saraland)[ Calera ](/aep/calera)[ Pleasant Grove ](/aep/pleasant-grove)[ Arab ](/aep/arab)[ Hueytown ](/aep/hueytown)[ Montevallo ](/aep/montevallo)[ Clanton ](/aep/clanton)[ Atmore ](/aep/atmore)[ Irondale ](/aep/irondale)[ Moody ](/aep/moody)[ Saks ](/aep/saks)[ Red Bay ](/aep/red-bay)[ Demopolis ](/aep/demopolis)[ Ashford ](/aep/ashford)[ Boaz ](/aep/boaz)[ Leeds ](/aep/leeds)[ Tarrant ](/aep/tarrant)[ Greenville ](/aep/greenville)[ Lincoln ](/aep/lincoln)[ Alabaster ](/aep/alabaster)[ Tuskegee ](/aep/tuskegee)[ Bay Minette ](/aep/bay-minette)[ Oneonta ](/aep/oneonta)[ Elba ](/aep/elba)[ Wetumpka ](/aep/wetumpka)[ Roanoke ](/aep/roanoke)[ Opp ](/aep/opp)[ Fayette ](/aep/fayette)[ Robertsdale ](/aep/robertsdale)[ Warrior ](/aep/warrior)[ Talladega Springs ](/aep/talladega-springs)[ Fultondale ](/aep/fultondale)[ Spanish Fort ](/aep/spanish-fort)[ Gulf Shores ](/aep/gulf-shores)[ Orange Beach ](/aep/orange-beach)[ Pike Road ](/aep/pike-road)[ Argo ](/aep/argo)[ Pinson ](/aep/pinson)[ Abbeville ](/aep/abbeville)[ Adamsville ](/aep/adamsville)[ Addison ](/aep/addison)[ Akron ](/aep/akron)[ Aliceville ](/aep/aliceville)[ Allgood ](/aep/allgood)[ Altoona ](/aep/altoona) Showing 100 of 486 Alabama cities Show All Cities ### Popular Alabama Cities for AEP: [Huntsville AEP](/aep/huntsville)[Birmingham AEP](/aep/birmingham)[Montgomery AEP](/aep/montgomery)[Mobile AEP](/aep/mobile)[Tuscaloosa AEP](/aep/tuscaloosa)[Hoover AEP](/aep/hoover)[Dothan AEP](/aep/dothan)[Auburn AEP](/aep/auburn)[Decatur AEP](/aep/decatur)[Madison AEP](/aep/madison) ## 4 Common AEP Mistakes That Cost Thousands Every year, we see seniors make the same costly mistakes during Annual Enrollment. Here's what to avoid—and what to do instead. #### ❌ Mistake: Waiting Until December 7 #### 💸 Consequence: Plans can fill up, and you may rush into a poor decision #### ✓ Solution: Start reviewing plans in October to give yourself time to compare #### ❌ Mistake: Not Checking Drug Formularies #### 💸 Consequence: Your medications may not be covered or may cost significantly more #### ✓ Solution: Use the plan finder to verify your exact medications are covered #### ❌ Mistake: Ignoring Network Changes #### 💸 Consequence: Your doctor may no longer be in-network next year #### ✓ Solution: Call your doctors' offices to confirm they'll accept your plan in 2026 #### ❌ Mistake: Focusing Only on Premium #### 💸 Consequence: A $0 premium plan may have high copays that cost you more overall #### ✓ Solution: Calculate total annual costs including deductibles, copays, and drug costs ### Don't Navigate AEP Alone Our licensed advisors know how to help you avoid these pitfalls and find the best plan for your unique situation. Get Your Free AEP Strategy Session ## Helpful AEP Resources ### IRMAA Calculator See if you'll pay higher Medicare premiums based on your income [Calculate IRMAA](/irmaa-calculator) ### Enrollment Timeline Calculate your Medicare enrollment dates based on your birthday [Find Your Dates](/medicare-timeline) ### MA vs Original Medicare Understand the key differences between your options [Compare Coverage Types](/medicare-comparison) ### Enrollment Checklist Review the step-by-step checklist to avoid missing deadlines and penalties [Open the Checklist](/medicare-enrollment-checklist) ## Medicare Enrollment Calendar 2026-2027 Missing a Medicare deadline can mean waiting months to enroll or paying permanent penalties. Here are all the key enrollment periods you need to know. ### Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) PRIORITY October 15 - December 7, 2026 The main enrollment window for Medicare Advantage and Part D plans. Changes take effect January 1. #### Who Can Enroll: - • Anyone currently on Medicare - • Switch between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare - • Change Part D prescription drug plans - • Add or drop coverage ### Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (OEP) January 1 - March 31, 2027 If you're in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can switch to a different MA plan or return to Original Medicare. #### Who Can Enroll: - • Current Medicare Advantage enrollees only - • Switch to another Medicare Advantage plan - • Drop Medicare Advantage for Original Medicare + Part D ### Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) PRIORITY 7-month window around your 65th birthday Your first chance to enroll in Medicare. Missing this window can result in permanent late penalties. #### Who Can Enroll: - • People turning 65 - • Those who qualify due to disability after 24 months - • 3 months before to 3 months after your 65th birthday ### Special Enrollment Period (SEP) Varies by qualifying event You may qualify outside standard enrollment periods if you move, lose employer coverage, qualify for Extra Help, or meet other criteria. #### Who Can Enroll: - • Recent movers to a new service area - • Loss of employer or union coverage - • Medicaid or Extra Help qualification - • 5-star plan special enrollment (Dec 8 - Nov 30) ### Not Sure Which Period Applies to You? Enrollment periods can be confusing, and enrolling during the wrong window—or missing one entirely—can cost you thousands in penalties or force you to wait months for coverage. We'll help you identify exactly when you're eligible to enroll and ensure you don't miss critical deadlines. Schedule Your Free Deadline Review **Last updated:** December 2025. Medicare enrollment periods and rules are subject to change. This information is for educational purposes only. Always verify current deadlines with Medicare.gov or a licensed agent. Common Questions ## Medicare Open Enrollment FAQ Get answers to frequently asked questions about Medicare, enrollment periods, and coverage options. ### How do you get paid? Is there a cost to me? ### When is Medicare Annual Enrollment Period? ### What is the difference between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare? ### Do I need a Medigap plan if I have Medicare Advantage? ### How do I know if I need to switch my drug plan? ### What is Hospital Indemnity insurance and who needs it? ### How do you get paid? Is there a cost to me? ### Can I enroll in Medicare outside of the Annual Enrollment Period? ### What happens if I miss the enrollment deadline? ### What is the difference between Medicare Part A and Part B? ### What is Medicare Part D and do I need it? ### Will I continue to receive support after I enroll? ### How much does Medicare cost? ### Can I keep my current doctor with Medicare? ### What are the 'donut hole' and coverage gap? ### What is Extra Help and how do I qualify? ### What if I'm still working and have employer coverage? ### Can I switch plans if I'm not happy with my current coverage? ### Do Medicare plans cover vision, dental, and hearing? ### What should I bring to my consultation? ### How do I know which plan is right for me? ### Still have questions? Our Medicare experts are here to help you understand your options and make the best decision for your healthcare needs. [Schedule a Free Consultation](#contact) ## Ready to Find Your Perfect Medicare Plan? Book a free consultation with our licensed Medicare advisors. We'll help you compare plans, understand your options, and enroll in the coverage that's right for you. ### Contact Information Call Us [(334) 489-3624](tel:3344893624) Email Us [tyler@daltoninsurance.biz](mailto:tyler@daltoninsurance.biz) Office Location 221 E South Street Dadeville, AL 36853 Office Hours Mon-Fri: 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM Find Us on Google [View Our Reviews](https://share.google/GIEMZT1wY39WkEDGr) ### Schedule Your Free Consultation Meet with a licensed Medicare advisor to compare plans and find the best options for your needs. - No cost, no obligation - Compare all available plans - Help with enrollment [Call Now](tel:3344893624)Book Appointment ⭐ Lifetime Support: Once you are our client, you are our client for life⭐ ### Dalton Insurance Your trusted Medicare & Wealth advisors. Helping families secure their health and protect their wealth for nearly 15 years. 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All rights reserved. Licensed in: [AL](/service-areas) • [GA](/medicare-service-areas-georgia) • FL • TN • MS • SC • NC • IL • and more [](https://www.facebook.com/DALTONINSURANCEAGENCY1/)[](https://www.tiktok.com/@drtylerdalton1)[](https://www.instagram.com/drtylerdalton/)[](https://www.linkedin.com/company/101849497/)[](https://www.youtube.com/@TylerDalton) © 2026 Dalton Insurance Agency. All Rights Reserved. Medicare has neither reviewed nor endorsed this information. Not connected with or endorsed by the United States government or the federal Medicare program. Calling our phone number will connect you to a licensed broker who is trained and certified to help you review the plan options available in your area. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 10 organizations which offer many products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options. 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