Medicare Open Enrollment Important Dates

Whether you have Original Medicare, a Medicare Advantage plan, or a stand-alone Prescription Drug plan, the fall Open Enrollment period is your once-a-year opportunity to make changes in your coverage.

This is not the time for you to go on autopilot and let your coverage automatically renew even if you have been happy with it in the past. Insurance companies are permitted to make changes each year. It is up to you to watch for information from your insurance carrier about changes in your premiums, deductibles, co-pays and co-insurance. You should also make sure your doctors and hospitals will be in your provider network and there are no major revisions in your prescription plan’s formulary for 2020.

If you are satisfied with your coverage for the coming year, you do not need to do anything. However, if you are not happy with your plan, call me at 440-255-5700 or email me at Lmutsko@mutskoinsurance.com and I will help you move to a more appropriate plan.

IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER

Annual Notice of Change

September

Private plans are required to send a notice each fall if they are making changes in cost, coverage, or service area. These changes go into effect in January of the coming year. Contact your insurance company if you have not received this information.

Medicare Open Enrollment Period

October 15 – December 7

This is the time frame each year when you can enroll in or change your Medicare Advantage or Prescription Part D plan. You may also switch to Original Medicare (Parts A & B). Your new coverage will begin on January 1.

Health Insurance Marketplace

November 1 - December 15, 2019.

Open Enrollment for Affordable Care plans also known as the Health Insurance Marketplace will begin accepting applications for 2020 on November 1. You have until December 15 to sign up. If you miss this deadline, you cannot get 2020 coverage unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

If you receive your health insurance benefits through your employer, your open enrollment dates may be different from the dates listed above. Check with your employer or human resources department to find out when you can make changes in your coverage.

Missing an Open Enrollment deadline may mean you will have to live with insurance coverage that does not meet all your needs in the coming year. As an independent broker, I represent a number of companies and can show you how coverage differs. I'll help you find a plan that fits your needs.