Annual Enrollment Period is also sometimes called Annual Election Period and abbreviated as AEP. This year it starts on Oct. 15 and ends on Dec. 7. During this time, Medicare beneficiaries can add, change, or drop Medicare health plans and/or prescription drug coverage for the following year (effective January 1).
If you're satisfied with your current Medicare plan, you don't need to take any action. However, plan details can change annually, so you should compare your plan options to confirm that your health and prescription drug needs are covered by your plan for the next year. This is an important time for beneficiaries to reevaluate their current Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan coverage and compare it with the options available in the upcoming year, because effective coverage will be locked in for a calendar year.
Agents can start to talk to clients or prospects about the upcoming year’s plan starting Oct. 1. However agents are not permitted to enroll clients until on or after Oct. 15.
In addition, agents are required to get client’s (or prospect’s) written permission in advance of discussing Medicare Insurance plans per CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) and keep their conversation during that original appointment narrowed down to only Medicare related topics listed on the SOA (Scope Of Appointment) form. The Scope Of Appointment form is designed to protect seniors from unscrupulous agents making Medicare appointments and then on the same appointment trying to sell prospects annuities, life insurance, or other non-Medicare related products instead. If other non-Medicare related products are to be discussed, another appointment needs to be made and discussed during that additional appointment and not on the same Medicare appointment as to comply with CMS rules.
Note: Signing the Scope Of Appointment form does NOT obligate you to enroll in a plan, affect your current enrollment, or enroll in you in Medicare plan.
To read more info from Medicare.gov click on these links:
Medicare Open Enrollment
Understanding Medicare Part C & Part D Enrollment Periods
https://www.medicare.gov/Pubs/pdf/11219-Understanding-Medicare-Part-C-D.pdf
Note: Medicare Insurance information can be overwhelming and confusing to many people. As an independent licensed agent I can explain things to you in simple terms so you feel comfortable making a decision. Then I can help you choose and enroll in a plan that you feel fits your needs.
By the way, it doesn’t cost you any more if you enroll in a Medicare Insurance plan through me as an independent agent versus directly with an insurance company either over the phone or via the Internet, since I get paid by the insurance companies for your enrollment. Plus you will have personalized service by a local agent. If you would like my assistance, please call me at 941-404-5334.
By calling this number, I understand I will be directed to a licensed insurance sales agent.