Medicare Open Enrollment 2026 Has Officially Begun! Here's What You Need to Know
It's officially that time of year again! Medicare's Annual Open Enrollment Period began on October 15, 2026, giving millions of Americans the opportunity to review their healthcare coverage and make changes for the upcoming year.
Whether you're happy with your current Medicare plan or wondering if there might be a better fit, now is the time to take a closer look at your options.
At Cornerstone Portfolios, our affiliated team at Lehigh Valley Medicare Advisors is here to help make the process easier to understand, more personalized, and less overwhelming.
And the best part? Our Medicare guidance and appointments are completely complimentary. There is absolutely no fee to work with our Medicare team.
When Is Medicare Open Enrollment?
Medicare's Annual Open Enrollment Period runs from October 15 through December 7, 2026.
During this time, eligible Medicare beneficiaries can review their existing coverage and make certain changes for 2027.
Any changes made during this enrollment period generally take effect on January 1, 2027.
You don't necessarily need to change your plan every year, but reviewing your coverage annually is an important habit.
What Can You Change During Open Enrollment?
Depending on your current Medicare coverage, you may be able to:
Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another.
Change your Medicare Part D prescription drug plan.
Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan.
Leave a Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare.
Review your current coverage to determine whether it still meets your needs.
It's important to remember that switching to Original Medicare does not automatically guarantee eligibility for a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy. Depending on your circumstances, medical underwriting may be required.
Why Should You Review Your Medicare Plan Every Year?
One of the biggest misconceptions about Medicare is that once you select a plan, you can simply forget about it.
The reality is that Medicare plans can change from year to year, even when your personal healthcare needs stay exactly the same.
Your current plan may have changes to:
Monthly premiums: The amount you pay each month for coverage could increase or decrease.
Prescription drug coverage: Your medications may move to different pricing tiers, have different cost-sharing requirements, or be subject to new coverage restrictions.
Doctor and hospital networks: Your preferred healthcare providers may not participate in the same plan networks next year.
Out-of-pocket expenses: Copayments, deductibles, coinsurance, and annual out-of-pocket limits may change.
Additional benefits: Dental, vision, hearing, and other supplemental benefits may be adjusted.
Taking the time to review these details now can help you better understand what to expect when your 2027 coverage begins.
How Can Lehigh Valley Medicare Advisors Help?
We understand that comparing Medicare plans can feel confusing, especially when you're sorting through different insurance companies, coverage options, and costs.
That's where our team comes in.
Lehigh Valley Medicare Advisors, an affiliate of Cornerstone Portfolios, is made up of independent, licensed Medicare insurance agents who work with multiple insurance carriers.
Rather than focusing on just one insurance company, we help individuals compare available plans from the carriers we represent based on their specific healthcare needs and preferences.
During a personalized appointment, our team can help you:
Review your current Medicare coverage and explain what may be changing in 2027.
Compare available Medicare plans based on your healthcare needs and budget.
Check your prescription medications to evaluate coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.
Review your doctors and preferred hospitals to help determine whether they participate in a plan's network.
Understand your options so you can make an informed decision about your coverage.
Our goal is to make sure you feel comfortable and informed throughout the process.
How Much Does It Cost to Work With Us?
Absolutely nothing!
There is no charge to meet with our Medicare team, review your current plan, compare available coverage options, or receive assistance with enrollment.
Your insurance plan premium is the same whether you enroll through one of our agents or directly through the insurance carrier.
We believe everyone deserves access to personalized Medicare guidance without having to worry about an additional consultation fee.
Don't Wait Until the December Deadline
Although Medicare Open Enrollment runs through December 7, we encourage individuals to begin reviewing their coverage sooner rather than later.
This allows time to discuss your healthcare needs, review potential changes, compare available options, and ask questions before making a decision.
Even if you ultimately decide to keep your current plan, understanding your coverage for the upcoming year can provide valuable peace of mind.
Schedule Your Complimentary Medicare Review Today
At Lehigh Valley Medicare Advisors, we're proud to help individuals throughout Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, and the surrounding Lehigh Valley communities navigate Medicare with greater confidence.
Whether you're looking to review your existing plan, explore other options, or simply have questions about Medicare Open Enrollment, our team is here to help.
Call us at 610-973-5334 or schedule your complimentary Medicare appointment today.
We offer both in-person and virtual Zoom appointments for your convenience.
No fees. No obligation to enroll. Just personalized Medicare guidance focused on your needs.