Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
Why Medicare Costs Can Increase Without Warning—and How AEP Helps
Many Medicare beneficiaries are surprised when healthcare costs rise—even when nothing seems different. This happens because Medicare plans can change pricing every year.
Common reasons costs increase
Higher copays or coinsurance
Prescription drugs moving to higher pricing tiers
Increased deductibles
Higher annual out‑of‑pocket maximums
Changes to pharmacy networks
These changes are explained in your plan’s Annual Notice of Change (ANOC), usually mailed in the fall. Unfortunately, many seniors don’t review it closely.
How AEP protects you
AEP allows you to compare:
Your current costs vs. next year’s costs
Alternative plans that may better fit your budget
Prescription coverage changes before January
A short review during AEP can prevent months of unexpected expenses.
Understanding your Medicare costs before they change is one of the most valuable benefits of AEP.
June 29, 2026 | Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
Why You Should Review Your Medicare Plan Every Year During AEP
Even if your Medicare plan worked this year, it may change next year. Learn why reviewing your Medicare plan annually is so important.
Read more
June 8, 2026 | Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
Medicare Changes for 2027: What Seniors Should Know Before AEP
Learn what Medicare changes usually happen each year and what to watch for in 2027. Understand why reviewing your Medicare plan during AEP is important.
Read more
June 29, 2026 | Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
Why You Should Review Your Medicare Plan Every Year During AEP
Even if your Medicare plan worked this year, it may change next year. Learn why reviewing your Medicare plan annually is so important.
Read more
June 8, 2026 | Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
Medicare Changes for 2027: What Seniors Should Know Before AEP
Learn what Medicare changes usually happen each year and what to watch for in 2027. Understand why reviewing your Medicare plan during AEP is important.
Read more