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Timing
Changing Plans
When and how to switch between Original Medicare, Advantage, and Part D plans.
You can change Medicare plans during certain windows: AEP (Oct 15 – Dec 7), the Medicare Advantage OEP (Jan 1 – Mar 31), and Special Enrollment Periods for qualifying events.
Key points
- Compare formularies, provider networks, and total yearly cost — not just premium.
- Switching from Advantage back to Original Medicare + Medigap can involve medical underwriting after your initial window.
- Prescription needs change; so should your plan review each year.
Common questions
Next steps
Related topics
Educational only. This information is not personalized advice. For your specific situation, verify at Medicare.gov or speak with a licensed Medicare professional.