Medicare Open Enrollment

Medicare Open Enrollment is from October 15 through December 7 each year. Open Enrollment is a time you can join, switch, or drop a plan. Your coverage will begin January 1, as long as the plan gets your request by December 7. This is a good time to review your current coverage and decide what makes sense for the next year. Even if you intend to stay with the same plan, check to see if any changes are coming. Plans can change their costs, coverage, and benefits from year to year. All Medicare households should receive a “Medicare & You” handbook each fall. This handbook includes a summary of Medicare benefits, rights, and protections; lists of available health and drug plans; and answers to frequently asked questions about Medicare. You can obtain this handbook from the Medicare.gov website as well. The Medicare website also has a Plan Finder, making it easy to compare coverage options and shop for health plans. If you would like a little more guidance, make an appointment with a certified Medicare counseling through CLAIM. CLAIM is Missouri’s official State Health Insurance Assistance Program. They offer free and unbiased Medicare counseling. Get connected with a Medicare counselor by calling CLAIM at: 1-800-390-3330.