The Medicare enrollment period for the 2021 year has officially arrived. Between October 15 and December 7, Americans can apply for Medicare or switch their healthcare plans, which will go into effect on January 1, 2021. To help walk you through what this open enrollment period means, and to help you choose a Medicare plan, we’ve created this short open enrollment guide below.

When is the Medicare enrollment period for 2021?

The Medicare open enrollment period for the upcoming year begins on Thursday, October 15, and ends Monday, December 7. Those enrolling in Medicare can apply at this time either for new coverage or different coverage policies. This Medicare enrollment period is the only time that enrollees can:

  • Enroll in a stand-alone prescription drug plan, also known as a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan or Part D plan
  • Change Part D plans
  • Change from an Original Medicare plan to a Medicare Advantage plan
  • Change from a Medicare Advantage plan to an Original Medicare plan with or without a Medicare Part D plan

How do I enroll in a new Medicare plan?

It’s recommended to enroll through Medicare by contacting 1-800-MEDICARE. This is especially recommended if you have difficulty enrolling. Make sure to confirm details about your new Medicare plan with the representative you speak to before enrolling.

Is Fall Open Enrollment the same as Open Enrollment for Federal Exchanges?

State and federal Exchanges, also called state and federal Marketplaces, provide enrollment periods annually for Americans who are underinsured or uninsured. However, Exchanges or Marketplaces are not the same as Medicare enrollment and aren’t meant for those who are eligible for Medicare. If you’re eligible for Medicare, make sure that you are only using the Medicare open enrollment and not the state or federal Marketplace enrollment.

Who is eligible for Medicare?

You are eligible for Medicare if you’re aged 65 and older, have a disability, or have End-Stage Renal Disease. If you’re unsure if you’re eligible for Medicare, you can find out your eligibility and your expected healthcare premium by visiting the Medicare.gov eligibility tool. About 60 million people, including 51 million older Americans and 9 million young adults with disabilities, rely on Medicare for their health insurance coverage.

What if I need additional help during Medicare enrollment?

If you need additional assistance when applying for Medicare or need help determining the best Medicare supplement plans for you, Fulmer Insurance can schedule a free, non-obligatory house visit with a dedicated licensed agent to help walk you through the basics of Medicare. For more information about the Medicare enrollment period or to learn more about the basics of Medicare, contact Fulmer Insurance Group today.