The clock is ticking! Open enrollment season is upon us, and this is your once-a-year window to either get the health coverage you need or make adjustments to your current plan. Whether you’re shopping for a new policy or updating an existing one, this is the time to get serious about protecting your health and your wallet!

For Marketplace plans, open enrollment typically runs from November 1 to December 15, so the window is tight! And if you’re Medicare-eligible, your open enrollment runs from October 15 to December 7—right now!

Here’s the deal: health insurance isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Your life, health, and needs may have changed since last year, and your plan could be changing, too. That’s why you must take advantage of open enrollment to get the best coverage possible for the year ahead.

But where do you start? Let’s break it down!

1. Compare Plans Early: Don’t wait until the last minute. Take time to review your current policy and compare it with the options available this year. Health insurance plans and premiums can change annually, so don’t assume your current plan is the best deal.
2. Check Your Network: Ensure your doctors, specialists, and hospitals are still covered under your plan’s network. Out-of-network care can hit your pocket hard—so double-check this before making a decision.
3. Prescription Drug Coverage: Are you taking any medications regularly? Make sure your plan covers them, and that you’re aware of the costs associated with your prescriptions.
4. Budget for More Than Just Premiums: It’s tempting to pick the plan with the lowest monthly premium, but remember—out-of-pocket costs, deductibles, and copays can quickly add up. Balance the upfront cost with your expected healthcare needs for the year.
5. Financial Assistance: You might be eligible for subsidies or premium tax credits if you’re shopping through the Marketplace. Be sure to review your income information to see if you qualify for lower premiums or reduced out-of-pocket costs.
6. Special Considerations for Medicare: For those on Medicare, this is the time to decide if you want to stick with Original Medicare or make a switch to Medicare Advantage or Part D. Review your options carefully to make sure your plan covers all your health and prescription needs.

Disclaimer:

I am a licensed independent insurance agent with access to many—but not all—insurance carriers available in your state. Any information I provide is specific to the plans I offer in your area. For a complete list of options, please visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (available 24/7). By contacting me, you agree to speak with an independent health insurance agent about health-related products, including Medicare Advantage. Neither I nor the companies I represent are affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or any state agency. This communication is intended as a solicitation for insurance.

Helpful Resources

If you want to explore options directly, visit these resources for more information:

Healthcare.gov or Medicare.gov