The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP) for 2026 runs January 1 through March 31. This is your chance to make changes if your current plan isn’t working — and many people don’t even know it exists.
What Is the MA Open Enrollment Period?
The OEP is a 3-month window at the start of each year where current Medicare Advantage enrollees can make one change:
- ✅ Switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan
- ✅ Drop Medicare Advantage and return to Original Medicare (+ standalone Part D)
Important: You can only make one change during the OEP. It’s effective the first of the month after your enrollment.
OEP vs. AEP — What’s the Difference?
| Feature | AEP (Oct 15 – Dec 7) | OEP (Jan 1 – Mar 31) |
|---|---|---|
| Who can use it | All Medicare beneficiaries | Current MA enrollees only |
| Number of changes | Unlimited during period | One change total |
| Can join MA from Original? | Yes | No |
When Should You Use the OEP?
- Your doctor left your plan’s network
- Your prescriptions aren’t covered or cost too much
- You’re unhappy with copays or the out-of-pocket maximum
- You moved and your plan doesn’t serve your new area
- You missed the AEP and need to make a change
Need Help Comparing Plans?
I compare every plan available in your ZIP code — for free. Call (919) 944-8443 or schedule a consultation.