The dates that matter, all in one place.

Showing every date. Tap a month to narrow it down.

1. Jan 1 – Mar 31

   Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment

   Already in a Medicare Advantage plan? Switch to another Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare (and add a drug plan) — one time.

2. Jan 1 – Mar 31

   General Enrollment Period

   Missed your first chance to sign up for Part A or B? Enroll now; coverage starts the month after you sign up. Late penalties may apply.

3. By Sep 30

   Annual Notice of Change arrives

   Your plan mails what changes next year: premiums, copays, drugs, and networks. Read it before Annual Enrollment.

4. Oct 1

   Plan shopping opens

   Plans can begin marketing next year's benefits and you can compare on Medicare.gov. Enrollment itself opens October 15.

5. Oct 15 – Dec 7

   Annual Enrollment Period

   Anyone with Medicare can switch Advantage plans, change drug plans, or move between Advantage and Original Medicare. Changes start January 1.

6. Dec 8 – Nov 30

   5-star plan special enrollment

   If a 5-star rated plan is available in your area, you can switch into it once during this stretch.

7. Your 7-month window

   Initial Enrollment Period

   Three months before your 65th birthday month, the month itself, and three months after. Use the date finder to see yours.

8. 6 months from Part B start

   Medigap open enrollment

   Your best time to buy a Medicare Supplement: no health questions, no higher price for health conditions.

Dates reflect federal Medicare rules and Ohio Department of Medicaid announcements as of October 2026. Confirm with Medicare.gov or the Ohio Medicaid Consumer Hotline (1-800-324-8680).