The Medicare annual open enrollment period for Medicare Advantage and Part D drug plans runs:
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Answer & full 3-part explanation (select an option above, or peek)
Why A is correct
The Medicare annual open enrollment period (AEP) runs from October 15 through December 7 each year. During this window, beneficiaries may enroll in, drop, or change Medicare Advantage plans and Part D prescription drug plans, with coverage effective January 1. This is distinct from the general enrollment period for Part B (January 1 through March 31) and the Medicare Advantage open enrollment period (January 1 through March 31) for switching among MA plans. During the AEP, beneficiaries may also switch from Original Medicare to an MA plan or change from one Part D plan to another, with all changes effective on January 1. Marking this window is essential for producers advising clients on annual plan changes.
Why the other options are wrong
- B) January 1 through March 31 is the general enrollment period for Part B and the MA open enrollment period, not the annual AEP.
- C) July 1 through September 30 is not a Medicare enrollment window.
- D) The AEP ends December 7, not December 31.
Memory hook
Mark October 15: the AEP opens for MA and Part D and closes December 7 — coverage starts New Year's Day.