Overview

• The enrollment window runs Oct. 15 through Dec. 7, allowing switches between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage and changes to Part D drug coverage.
• CMS projects average Medicare Advantage premiums will fall about 14.6% in 2026, with standalone Part D premiums down roughly 9.9%.
• Other costs are rising next year, including an expected 11.6% increase in Part B premiums and a higher Part D out-of-pocket maximum from $2,000 to $2,100.
• Several major insurers are scaling back Medicare Advantage offerings for 2026, and enrollees whose plans are canceled will default to Original Medicare if they do not select a replacement.
• Open enrollment continues during the federal shutdown, but with nearly half of CMS staff furloughed, beneficiaries may face delays and should rely on ANOC letters, Medicare.gov's Plan Finder, and local SHIP counselors.