Medicare Open Enrollment: A Checklist for Reviewing Your Coverage
Each fall, Medicare Open Enrollment runs from October 15 to December 7. Use this checklist to review your plan and decide whether a change makes sense.
Medicare
Have a question about Medicare?
How the parts of Medicare work, when to sign up, how to compare plans and where to find help with costs.
16 guides, page 1 of 2
Medicare Basics: Parts A, B, C and D Explained
Medicare has several parts, each covering different services. This plain-English guide explains what Parts A, B, C and D cover and how they fit together.
When to Sign Up for Medicare: Enrollment Periods Explained
Signing up for Medicare at the right time helps you avoid coverage gaps and late enrollment penalties. Here is how the main enrollment periods work.
Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage: Questions to Ask
Choosing between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage depends on your doctors, budget, travel plans and health needs. These questions can help you compare.
Medigap (Medicare Supplement) Plans: How They Work
Medigap policies help pay some costs that Original Medicare does not cover. Learn how standardized plans work, when to buy, and what to compare.
Part D Prescription Coverage: How the Out-of-Pocket Cap Works
Medicare Part D now includes an annual cap on out-of-pocket drug costs. Learn how the cap works, the 2026 and 2027 amounts, how payments can be spread out, and what it does not include.
Medicare Savings Programs: Help Paying Premiums if You Qualify
Medicare Savings Programs can help people with limited income and resources pay Medicare premiums and, in some cases, other costs. Learn how they work and how to apply.
Extra Help With Prescription Costs: Who May Qualify
Extra Help is a federal program that lowers Medicare Part D costs for people with limited income and resources. Here is how it works and how to apply.
What Medicare Doesn't Cover: Dental, Vision and Hearing
Original Medicare does not cover most routine dental, vision and hearing care. Learn about the gaps and the options available to help with these costs.
Preventive Services Covered by Medicare
Medicare covers many preventive services, often with no cost to you when your provider accepts assignment. Here is an overview of what is available.
Understanding IRMAA: Income-Related Medicare Premiums
Higher-income Medicare beneficiaries pay more for Part B and Part D through IRMAA. Learn how it is calculated, the 2026 thresholds, and how to request a review after a life change.
Getting Free, Unbiased Medicare Counseling Through SHIP
Every state has a State Health Insurance Assistance Program offering free, one-on-one Medicare counseling. Learn what SHIP counselors can help with and how to reach one.