Do I Have to Enroll in Medicare Every Year?

Written by: 
Matt Kiggins
Last updated: 
July 20, 2023

No, You do not have to enroll in Medicare annually. This applies to individuals enrolled in Original Medicare, Medigap plans, Medicare Advantage plans, or prescription drug coverage plans. However, it is important to review your plan as well as compare it with other options during the open enrollment period to understand potential coverage changes or cancellations.

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Are There Any Exceptions?

Sometimes, you may need to change your Medicare Advantage or stand-alone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan coverage or sign up for a new plan.

  • If you're enrolled in Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), you'll have the option to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) each year during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) from October 15 to December 7.
  • If you have a Medicare Advantage plan that doesn't renew its contract with Medicare, you'll need to choose a new plan during the Annual Enrollment Period to avoid a gap in your coverage. If you don't enroll in a new plan, you'll be automatically enrolled in Original Medicare.
  • If you move out of your Medicare Advantage plan's service area or lose your current Medicare coverage, you may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).
  • If your health needs have changed it's always a good idea to compare new options. For example, if you develop a new health condition or your condition worsens, you may need to switch to a Medicare Advantage plan offering more comprehensive coverage.

What is an Annual Notice of Change?

Your Medicare plan provider must send you a "Plan Annual Notice of Change" (ANOC) every fall, which includes any changes in coverage, costs, and other aspects that will take effect in January of the following year. It's essential to go through any alterations to your plan to ensure it still fits your requirements. Contact your insurance company if you don't receive the ANOC by October or wish to terminate your Plan.

Bottom Line:

In most cases, you don't have to re-enroll in Medicare every year. However, it is important to review your current coverage and determine if any changes need to be made. This will ensure your have the best plan that aligns with your specific healthcare needs. If you have a Medicare Advantage health insurance plan and wish to change, you can do so during the Annual Enrollment Period.

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FAQ

If you don't enroll in Medicare during your initial enrollment period, you may face late enrollment penalties and higher premiums. Signing up as early as possible is best to take advantage of the coverage without penalties.

You do not have to re-enroll in Medicare Part D every year. However, you should review your coverage and available plans during the annual enrollment period to ensure they meet your needs. You may also need to switch plans due to changes in your health needs or if your plan discontinues its contract with Medicare.

Yes, if eligible, you will be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A when you turn 65.

No, your Medicare card does not expire. However, if you move or change your name, you must update your information with Social Security Administration (SSA) to receive a new card. You can also request a replacement card through the SSA website.

No, you don't have to notify Social Security when you turn 65 years old. You can choose to apply for Social Security benefits any time between 62 and 70. If you're already receiving Social Security benefits at age 65, you'll be enrolled automatically in Medicare without having to inform Social Security about your birthday.

Matt Kiggins
Senior Editor
SimpleAdvisor.com

For over 15 years, Matt Kiggins has been the senior editor at Simple Advisor, giving detailed advice on Medicare, life insurance, and dental coverage to thousands of clients in more than forty states. His demonstrated expertise in assisting people with their health plan selection is remarkable — it’s evident that he stands out among competitors as the go-to source for knowledge and support.

Matt holds a resident 2–15 Florida Health & Life (Including Annuities & Variable Contracts) Agent License in Florida, his state license number is P116762 (Issued 10/1/2007).

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Matt Kiggins
Senior Editor
SimpleAdvisor.com
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